Vendors Strike as Authorities Evict Taxi Operators from Balikyewuunya Roadside Market in Luweero

Business ground to a halt in Luweero’s Balikyewuunya roadside market after vendors went on strike protesting the eviction of taxi operators, with traders warning that their livelihoods are at risk without customer traffic.

Business came to a standstill at the busy Balikyewuunya roadside market along the Kampala–Gulu highway in Luweero District after hundreds of vendors laid down their tools in protest against the abrupt eviction of taxi operators from the area.

The affected vendors, who deal in items such as roasted meat, gonja, pineapples, cassava, sweet potatoes, and cooked food, staged a sit-down strike following a directive by town council authorities to relocate taxis that had been operating in the area.

The market, which hosts more than 700 vendors, was thrown into confusion as security personnel, including the army and police, were deployed early in the morning to enforce the order. Authorities say the move is part of a government effort to control traffic and improve sanitation in the town.

“We are simply implementing a government directive aimed at road expansion and restoring order and cleanliness in the town,” said Town Clerk Lydia Nabaasa in a statement.

However, vendors expressed frustration, arguing that their livelihoods depend heavily on the presence of taxis that bring customers to the market.

“We cannot work without the taxis. They are our main source of customers,” said Fatuma Kyaterekera, one of the vendors. “If they are removed, then we are also out of business.”

Lydia Nabbumba, who has operated in the market for over 20 years, said the decision has left many traders stranded, especially those with financial obligations.

“I have spent two decades here raising my children from this business. Now we are being told to leave without any clear alternative. We even have loans to pay,” she lamented.

Chairperson of the vendors, Daniel Kakeeto, said the affected traders are calling for government intervention.

“We have more than 700 people here who depend on this market. We are asking the government to come in and help us find a solution,” he said.

The enforcement operation also affected food vendors dealing in matooke, with some having their goods confiscated after failing to comply with the relocation order.

Despite the outcry, Luweero Town Council Chairperson elect Paul Mukungu defended the exercise, saying it was conducted peacefully.

“There was no violence, no injuries, and the operation was successful. This is for the good of the town,” Mukungu said.

Meanwhile, Luweero District Chairperson Erasto Kibirango criticized the manner in which the eviction was carried out, urging authorities to ensure proper planning and stakeholder engagement before displacing traders.

“Government should first plan for these people before evicting them. There must be dialogue involving stakeholders, including the Minister of Local Government,” Kibirango emphasized.

The eviction follows an earlier directive issued on March 26 ordering all traders operating illegally along road reserves to vacate, with structures along the roadside demolished and vendors instructed to relocate to gazetted markets.

As tensions remain high, vendors say they will not resume work until their concerns are addressed.