Gulu city authorities ban street vending

Gulu, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | Gulu city authorities have issued a directive against street vending in the city. According to a directive issued on Monday by the Gulu City Town Clerk Isiah Tumwesigye, the ban takes effect next month.

Isiah says that no businesses shall be allowed to operate on the pavements, walkways, shop verandas, backstreets, and corridors.

The directive further notes that no business shall be allowed to operate along the streets and fuel stations or any other place since it will be deemed illegal.

He directed all the affected persons to relocate to designated markets such as Gulu Main Market, Gulu Modern, Kabedopong, Wilobo Market, Layibi Central Market, and any other recognized market in Gulu city.

However, some vendors have described the directive as harsh, untimely, and done without consultations. They argue that they lack money for renting stalls and lock-ups in the markets.

Janet Alima, a dealer in second-hand clothes along Gulu-Kampala highway, says that the directive has left her confused wondering where she will sell her merchandise from.

Dick Okello, one of the vendors operating opposite Awere stage along Ring Road, on the other hand, says that he has no option but to sell his products from home.

Anthony Kilama, the Chairperson of Kony Pacu Market in Bardege Layibi Division, welcomed the directive but asked the city leaders to make proper implementation of their directives in order to improve trade order in the city.

This is not the first time the authorities are trying to evict the vendors.

Last year, Gulu City Market Vendors Association petitioned Gulu City authorities demanding the eviction of street vendors and hawkers.

There are hundreds of street vendors operating on major roads in Gulu City who sell second first-hand clothes, food items, fruits, and electronics among others.

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