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The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives has issued a directive prohibiting urban and local government authorities from granting hawking licences to foreigners. Ms. Geraldine Ssali, the permanent secretary of the ministry, conveyed this decision in a letter dated February 2, urging compliance with the Trading Licensing Act.
Ms. Ssali’s letter highlighted complaints from various stakeholders regarding the licensing of non-citizens for hawking businesses. Citing the Trade Licensing Act Cap 101, she emphasized the prohibition of licensing non-citizens as hawkers and instructed authorities to adhere to these provisions.
The directive follows concerns raised by the Kampala City Traders Association (Kacita) and Makindye West Member of Parliament, Allan Ssewanyana, regarding the increasing presence of foreign hawkers in violation of existing laws.
Thaddeus Musoke Nagenda, the chairman of Kacita, welcomed the ministry’s circular, emphasizing the importance of enforcement. While expressing satisfaction with the directive, he noted that Kacita had not been formally informed of the decision, despite being the initial complainants. Nagenda suggested collaborative efforts involving committees, police, and traders to ensure effective enforcement of the law.
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Nagenda stressed the importance of foreigners focusing on manufacturing, with local traders engaging in wholesale and retail activities. He emphasized the need to prevent foreigners from directly engaging in retail, underscoring the traditional roles within the supply chain.
The issue of immigration has added complexity to the situation, with registered immigrants in Kampala City and Wakiso District totaling 121,499 individuals. This influx, particularly in townships within Makindye and Rubaga divisions, has raised concerns among local residents, heightening the urgency for regulatory measures.
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