By Sulaiman Kauki
The Kampala Capital City Authority has dismissed concerns about plans to demolish St. Balikuddembe Market, widely known as Owino Market, assuring lawmakers and traders that no such move is under consideration.
KCCA Executive Director Sharifah Buzeki made the clarification while appearing before the Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE) to address issues raised in the Auditor General’s report for the 2024/2025 financial year. The session was chaired by Medard Sseggona on March 27, 2026.
Buzeki explained that the authority’s priority is to renovate and upgrade the ageing market rather than tear it down. She noted that KCCA intends to work closely with vendors, especially if funding becomes available, to ensure they are involved in decisions regarding redevelopment plans such as design and structure.
She pointed out several sections of the market that urgently need repairs, including areas affected by leakages like the poultry and vegetable sections. According to her, some of these issues will be addressed immediately even as broader improvement plans are being considered.
Buzeki also confirmed that KCCA has taken over ownership of the market land from the former managers, the St. Balikuddembe Market Stalls, Space and Lock-ups Shop Owners Association (SSLOA).
Concerns from legislators were sparked by recent reports suggesting parts of the market could be demolished, creating uncertainty among traders. Richard Sebamala said vendors fear the market could eventually be handed over to private developers, drawing comparisons to past developments like the Nakivubo Channel.
Committee chairperson Sseggona acknowledged receiving complaints from traders and called on KCCA to provide clear documentation on the ownership of the market land. He also asked whether proper procedures, including compensation of the previous tenants, were followed during the takeover.
Meanwhile, Yusuf Nsibambi noted that disputes over the market land are not new, tracing them back to the tenure of SSLOA, which he accused of exceeding its mandate and poorly managing the facility.
