NELSON K
Street vendors operating at Kebisoni Town Stage are raising alarm over the loss of income and deepening poverty following the enforcement of a trade order in the area. The vendors say the sudden eviction from the streets has left them without a source of livelihood and are now appealing to authorities for a workable solution.
Speaking to Boona Radio, the vendors, led by Tusasibwe Gillian of Kebisoni Sub-county, Tugume Mathias, and Pius Kaziire, broke down in tears as they described their situation. They said the trade order was implemented without providing an alternative place to operate, leaving many families facing hunger, loan defaults, and the inability to meet basic needs.
“After being chased off the streets, we have no income. We fear high levels of poverty because this is the only work we have depended on to pay school fees, buy food, and support our families,” said one of the vendors.
The vendors are now pleading with authorities to show mercy and allow them to work under a structured timetable. They suggested working during specific hours, such as at night, instead of being expelled completely and permanently. They also raised concern over the loss of shade materials like wood and umbrellas, which were removed during the operation. Fruit and vegetable vendors say their produce is now drying up under the scorching sun, leading to more losses.
“This trade order has ended our hope. We were using PDM funds to generate small profits and support our homes, but now we have nowhere to go,” they added.
Mr. Tibesirwa Akim, the Kebisoni Stage Vendors Market Chairperson and also Nyarushanje Sub-county Chairperson for Persons with Disabilities, confirmed that the vendors’ future looks uncertain. He noted that many had invested PDM funds into their small businesses and were using the profits to sustain their families.
Mr. Akim joined the vendors in calling on authorities to allow them to continue working under strict guidelines and a clear timetable, rather than removing them entirely. He said they have already reached out to the incoming Kebisoni Town Council leadership, including the Town Clerk, elected Mayor, and councilors, to discuss the matter and find a lasting solution.
