Kampala residents have welcomed a government directive ordering all illegal car dealers occupying road reserves and pedestrian walkways to vacate immediately.
The move, aimed at restoring order and improving pedestrian safety, comes after years of congestion and hazards caused by commercial encroachment on public spaces.
The directive was issued on Monday, 2nd March 2026, by the Minister of State for Works and Transport, Musa Ecweru, during an enforcement operation targeting growing congestion along major city routes.
Hon. Ecweru ordered all car dealers occupying road reserves and sidewalks to leave immediately, warning that the provisions of the Roads Act, 2019, would be strictly applied.
“Roads and sidewalks are for pedestrians, not car sales. Anyone encroaching will be removed, and the law will be enforced,” the minister warned.
He emphasized that road reserves and sidewalks are public spaces meant for safe pedestrian movement, not commercial activities.
“Illegal occupation of road reserves has disrupted traffic and put public safety at risk; these spaces are meant for pedestrians and future infrastructure, not commercial display,” Hon Ecweru added.
To ensure compliance, the minister directed coordinated operations with the Uganda Police Force, focusing on congestion-prone areas including Nakawa, Banda, Kireka, and Bweyogerere.
Authorities say the enforcement will begin this week and will be sustained to prevent illegal occupation from recurring.
“This is not a one-day exercise; we are committed to keeping roads and sidewalks clear and ensuring they serve their proper purpose,” the minister stated.
For many residents, the directive offers long-awaited relief from obstructed sidewalks and unsafe walking conditions.
In Banda, Fatimah Namutebi recounted the daily struggle of walking her young son to school.
“The cars took over the pavement. We were forced to walk on the road with moving traffic. Every morning felt like a risk,” she said.
Residents across the city expressed optimism that strict enforcement will finally reclaim public spaces, making Kampala safer and more navigable for pedestrians.
Officials say sustained enforcement is essential to ensure compliance and prevent dealers from returning, with continuous monitoring pledged to keep pedestrian safety and road order a top priority.
With the government taking firm action, residents hope Kampala’s roads and sidewalks will soon be safer, less congested, and fully accessible to pedestrians.
