Traders Rush to Clear Structures Ahead of Ntungamo Crackdown

Traders in Ntungamo Municipality are hurriedly dismantling kiosks and roadside structures as a 14-day ultimatum expires, with many raising concerns over losses and the lack of a clear relocation plan.

Traders in Ntungamo Municipal Town have scrambled to dismantle unapproved temporary structures as a 14-day ultimatum issued by authorities expires, ahead of enforcement of a trade order set to begin tomorrow.

Across the municipality, kiosks, containers, and roadside garages were being pulled down or loaded onto trucks, as business owners rushed to avoid forceful eviction.

The hurried compliance has exposed growing frustration among traders, many of whom say the directive has come at a significant financial cost.

“They didn’t give us an alternative place to put our businesses. The council just told us to demolish our structures,” said John Bamanzi.

Several traders said they now face uncertainty, citing the absence of a clear relocation plan despite earlier assurances from municipal authorities.

Others, however, expressed support for the move, saying it could improve urban development in the long term.

“This is not entirely bad. It is for the development of our municipality. Ntungamo has been developing at a slow pace,” said Emanuel Naturinda.

For some, the demolitions have cut off their primary source of income, raising concerns about their ability to support their families.

“This has been our major source of livelihood and school fees for our children, but now all hope is gone,” said Geoffrey Mujuni.

The affected structures include those used for merchandise, small-scale garages, kiosks, and containers, many of which were operating in road reserves and other unauthorised spaces.

While some traders have complied voluntarily, others risk forceful removal once enforcement begins.

Municipal authorities have previously indicated that affected traders would be relocated to the central market.

However, by the time the deadline expired, many traders said no concrete arrangements had been made, leaving them uncertain about their next steps.