The Kampala Capital City Authority has defended its ongoing trade order enforcement operations, pointing to rising business compliance, improved urban order, and sweeping infrastructure and transport reforms as clear signs that Kampala is undergoing a structured transformation.

Once choked by congestion and disorder, Kampala is steadily taking on a cleaner, more organized outlook, greenery restored along its streets and pedestrian pathways reclaimed to create a calmer, more breathable urban environment.

This transformation follows the enforcement of the city’s trade order directive, an initiative that has improved sanitation, decongested the central business district, and restored public spaces.

Yet beneath this renewed appearance lies a human cost: thousands of informal traders have been pushed off the streets, leaving many without livelihoods as authorities pursue order and compliance in the capital.

Addressing the media, KCCA Executive Director Sharifah Buzeki described the enforcement as a critical step toward restoring order and guiding sustainable urban growth.

Operations have been conducted across key areas including Kibuye, Ndeeba, Busega, Rubaga, and Kawempe, And the kampala central business area targeting unregulated trade and the misuse of public spaces.

Since the rollout, more than 22,900 new business licenses have been registered, signalling a notable shift toward formalized trade and increased compliance among city operators.

KCCA is now encouraging vendors to transition into gazetted markets, where vacant spaces are being allocated to accommodate those relocated from the streets.

To further enhance the city’s appearance, KCCA plans to deploy “ambience ambassadors” by the end of May, an initiative aimed at maintaining cleanliness and enforcing new urban standards.

She also revealed new urban standards and transport reforms roll out as a boost to the Order.

Under these standards, property owners are required to paint buildings, construct proper pavements, and incorporate greenery to improve the city’s outlook.

Reforms are also extending to the transport sector, where the boda boda industry is being streamlined through designated stages and rider registration to improve order and safety.

Plans to introduce electric buses are also underway, forming part of a broader strategy to modernize public transport and ease congestion in the capital.

KCCA has also intensified efforts to rescue and rehabilitate street children, warning that negligent parents could face legal action.

Meanwhile, major infrastructure projects including the Kiteezi road works are progressing, with completion timelines projected at approximately three years.