By Infora Media
Kampala — Traders operating in Owino Market, officially known as St Balikuddembe Market, have come out in support of businessman Hamis Kiggundu, dismissing allegations that they were unfairly treated during the recent demolition of structures along the Nakivubo Channel corridor.
The traders say compensation was paid in advance before any structures were brought down during the demolition exercise carried out last Saturday night along Sebana Road, a short distance from the drainage channel in Kampala.
Several affected vendors told reporters that the process was conducted transparently and that most traders had already received relocation payments prior to the demolition.
Mr Robert Mukalazi, one of the traders whose lock-up was removed during the exercise, said the majority of affected vendors were compensated and are optimistic about the new developments planned for the area.
“We were many traders operating here, and most of us have already received our money. We have also been assured that we shall receive lock-ups in the new modern structure once construction is completed,” Mr Mukalazi said.
Another vendor, Mr Mahad Ssali, also confirmed that the compensation was paid before the structures were demolished.
He explained that the affected traders were aware of the redevelopment plans and had been prepared for the transition.
A third trader, who preferred not to be named, said the redevelopment had been communicated earlier and that some traders had received their compensation well before the demolition took place.
“We were informed earlier about the redevelopment plans. Some traders had already been compensated before the structures were brought down. The project will improve the environment and make business easier,” the trader said.
Speaking about the project, Mr Kiggundu, popularly known as Ham, said 48 traders were operating in the affected structure and each received Shs3 million to help them relocate their merchandise.
He added that the traders would also benefit from the planned redevelopment of the site, which will include modern commercial facilities.
According to Mr Kiggundu, each affected trader will receive a free lock-up in the new complex, and they will not be required to pay rent for the first year.
“Besides the Shs3 million given to each trader to facilitate the relocation of their goods, we have also resolved to allocate each of them a lock-up in the modern shops that will be constructed here. They will operate rent-free for the first year,” he said.
Mr Kiggundu said the demolition was part of a broader effort to restore and reorganise the Nakivubo Channel corridor, which he said had deteriorated over time.
According to him, the area had become a dumping ground and a hideout for criminal activity, posing both environmental and security concerns.
“For Uganda to develop, we must take deliberate steps regardless of our political differences. Nakivubo had turned into a criminal hideout and a dumping site for garbage, and this redevelopment is part of restoring order and improving the city,” he said.
A section of business leaders and traders believe the redevelopment around the market will boost trade and improve the general infrastructure within Kampala’s central business district.
They argue that modern facilities, better sanitation and organised trading spaces could attract more customers to the busy market.
For many vendors, the project represents an opportunity to transform one of Uganda’s largest trading hubs into a cleaner and more structured commercial centre.
Traders say they remain hopeful that once the redevelopment is completed, the new facilities will provide a safer, more organised and business-friendly environment for the thousands of traders and shoppers who depend on Owino Market every day.