Following the ongoing public outcry surrounding the implementation of the urban trade order in various towns and cities, the Minister of Local Government Raphael Magyezi has convened a high-level consultative dialogue with the leadership of Born Again Pentecostal churches to address emerging concerns and harmonize enforcement approaches.
The meeting, held on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, brought together government officials and a delegation of Pentecostal leaders led by Pastor Joseph Serwada, in response to concerns raised over the impact of the trade order exercise on places of worship and urban livelihoods.
The urban trade order, introduced through a Ministry of Local Government circular issued in March, is aimed at restoring order in urban centers by enforcing compliance with physical planning regulations, improving sanitation standards, reducing congestion, and ensuring a more structured and accessible business environment across towns.
According to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government, Ben Kumumanya, the implementation has already registered measurable progress. He cited improved organisation in urban centres, increased occupancy of gazetted markets in towns such as Mbale, Hoima, Nyendo, and Kasese, as well as reduced road congestion, improved drainage systems, and better sanitation management.
Despite these gains, religious leaders raised concerns about inconsistencies in enforcement, particularly instances where places of worship were reportedly affected despite not being located in restricted areas such as road reserves or wetlands. They also pointed to the conduct of some enforcement officers and called for clearer guidelines to avoid confusion on the ground.
Government acknowledged the concerns raised and committed to further review enforcement procedures. Minister Magyezi emphasized that lawful places of worship should not be unfairly targeted and assured stakeholders that standard operating procedures would be strengthened and clearly communicated to all local authorities.
“Places of worship operating within the law should not be adversely affected. We are strengthening the breakdown and communication of standard operating procedures so that implementation is clear, consistent, and leaves no room for confusion,” Magyezi said.
The meeting agreed on key outcomes, including enhanced stakeholder consultations, improved sensitisation before enforcement actions, and a follow-up dialogue to assess progress and address outstanding issues.
The engagement signals government’s effort to balance urban order enforcement with protection of lawful community and religious activities as the trade order implementation continues across the country.
