Kisekka Market Leaders Dismiss Takeover Fears Amid Rumors

The renovation of Kisekka Market yard, aimed at accommodating traders who previously worked along the roadside—including mechanics, food vendors, and small-scale business owners—has sparked anxiety among some vendors.

Traders at Kisekka Market have voiced concerns over persistent rumors that the upgraded market yard, developed by Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), might be handed over to a bus company for use as a bus terminal.

However, market leaders have strongly refuted these claims, assuring traders that the facility, which was designed to provide a stable working environment, will remain dedicated to its intended purpose.

The renovation of Kisekka Market yard, aimed at accommodating traders who previously worked along the roadside—including mechanics, food vendors, and small-scale business owners—has sparked anxiety among some vendors.

Rumours suggesting that a bus company might take over the space have gained traction, with reports of buses sighted at the site.

"We have heard that we might lose our space to a bus company, and we need clear communication from KCCA to avoid unnecessary panic," said Patrick Matovu, a trader at Kisekka Market.

Many traders expressed their distress, as they had hoped the upgraded facility would offer them a permanent and secure place to conduct their business, in contrast to their previous experience working without a fixed location.

However, market leaders, including Geoffrey Kayita Sserumaga, the chairperson of the traders, have assured the public that these claims are unfounded.

"The market space was built to support small-scale traders, and that will not change. The President gave us assurance that no one will take this space because it belongs to the poor," said Sserumaga.

KCCA Mayor, Salim Uhuru, also reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to ensuring the market remains in the hands of traders.

He said no external party would interfere with KCCA’s plans for the facility.

Kampala Minister Minsa Kabanda also weighed in, denying any intentions to transfer control of the market to a bus company, and urged traders to remain calm and continue with their regular activities.

Kisekka Market has been a focal point for ownership disputes, with legal battles fought over its management for several years.