Ibanda Traders Defy New Trade Order, Resume Operations in Illegal Structures

Authorities in Ibanda Municipality have raised concern after some traders reportedly resumed operations in structures marked for demolition, despite ongoing enforcement of the government’s new trade order.

Some traders in Ibanda Municipality have reportedly resumed operations in illegal structures that had earlier been marked for demolition following the enforcement of the government’s new trade order.

The new trade order, which took effect on February 19, 2026, prohibits the construction and operation of structures built within road reserves or without approved building plans. The regulations also ban the display of merchandise outside shops and business premises.

Despite the enforcement campaign, several traders on streets including Mpiira Street are reportedly violating the directives.

Authorities say some structures that had been marked with an “X” for demolition have since resumed operations after traders allegedly removed the markings and repainted the buildings in order to continue business activities.

On Main Street, traders were also found displaying merchandise outside their shops contrary to the regulations.

Speaking on the matter, Usman Ssebaduka acknowledged receiving reports about traders defying the guidelines and attributed the challenge to weak enforcement.

“We have received information about some traders who have resumed operating in structures that had been marked for demolition and others displaying merchandise outside their shops. This is mainly due to low enforcement,” Ssebaduka said.

He urged enforcement teams to intensify daily operations to ensure full compliance with the new trade order.

“Our enforcement teams must continue conducting operations on a daily basis and caution those violating the guidelines so that order can be restored in the municipality,” he added.

Ssebaduka further warned that traders who continue disregarding the regulations risk facing legal action.

“Those who continue violating the guidelines will face the law because these directives were put in place to ensure order, safety, and proper planning within the municipality,” he warned.

Municipal authorities say the enforcement exercise is aimed at improving urban order, protecting road reserves, and ensuring proper physical planning within the growing municipality.