The Executive Director of Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), Sharifah Buzekki, has revealed that the authority has recorded a significant increase in formally registered businesses following the recent removal of street vendors from roads and building verandas in Kampala.
Speaking during a press briefing at the Uganda Media Centre, Buzekki said the move, which initially drew mixed reactions, is now yielding positive results in terms of business formalization and revenue prospects.
“We have seen a remarkable rise in the number of businesses registering with KCCA. This is a clear indication that traders are now embracing formal operations, which will ultimately boost revenue collection for the city,” Buzekki stated.
KCCA began the enforcement exercise on February 19, 2026, targeting vendors operating along major streets and in building corridors within the central business district. The initiative was aimed at restoring order and implementing urban trade regulations.
Now, nearly three months later, Buzekki reports that 22,909 new businesses have been registered.
“This progress shows that our strategy is working. With more businesses coming into the formal sector, we expect an increase in tax compliance and overall city revenue,” she added.
Beyond revenue, Buzekki emphasized that the operation has significantly improved the flow of traffic and reduced congestion in the city.
“The removal of street vendors has greatly decongested Kampala. Both pedestrian and vehicle movement has improved, making the city more organized and accessible,” she explained.
Looking ahead, KCCA plans to shift focus to streamlining the transport sector, particularly targeting boda boda riders and taxi operators to ensure they operate within the law.
“We are now turning our attention to regulating public transport, including boda bodas and taxis, so that they can operate in a more orderly and lawful environment,” Buzekki noted.
On urban cleanliness and safety, the KCCA boss warned that property owners with dilapidated structures will also face enforcement action.
“We are committed to ensuring that Kampala remains clean and safe. Owners of unsafe or poorly maintained buildings will be required to take corrective measures,” she cautioned.
Buzekki further disclosed that KCCA has rescued at least 365 street children, who have since been taken to rehabilitation centers. However, she raised concern over individuals who continue to give money to children on the streets, encouraging them to return.
“We urge the public to stop giving money to children on the streets. This practice undermines our efforts to rehabilitate them,” she said.
She also warned against the growing trend of individuals allegedly removing patients from hospitals such as Mulago National Referral Hospital and placing them on the streets to beg.
“This is unacceptable and inhumane. We call upon the public to report such acts so that action can be taken,” Buzekki stressed.
KCCA maintains that the ongoing reforms are part of a broader strategy to transform Kampala into a more organized, business-friendly, and livable city.
