Government has issued a two-week ultimatum to car dealers operating along the Kampala-Jinja road reserves in Nakawa Division Kampala to vacate road reserves, citing safety and urban planning concerns.
The directive was issued on Wednesday during a meeting convened by the Ministry of Works and Transport, bringing together key stakeholders including the Uganda Police Force, Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), Kampala Capital City Authority, and the Uganda Revenue Authority.
In a statement, the ministry said the engagement was aimed at preparing operators ahead of enforcement to clear encroachments on road reserves.
“Dealers were given two weeks to vacate the road reserve and remove all structures and vehicles encroaching on the designated area,” the ministry said, adding that operators had acknowledged the directive and committed to comply.
Authorities also confirmed that a joint field exercise is underway to clearly demarcate affected zones and guide compliance.
“A joint field visit is underway to demarcate the road reserve boundaries for clear understanding and compliance,” the statement noted.
The planned enforcement is part of broader efforts to improve urban order, road safety, and infrastructure management across the city, with similar operations expected to extend to other major roads.
Officials argue that roadside car sales have increasingly disrupted traffic flow and created safety risks for motorists and pedestrians, while contributing to disorderly urban development.
However, the directive has raised concern among traders, many of whom say they have operated in the area for more than two decades and depend on the businesses for their livelihoods.
The dealers say the operations support hundreds of workers, including mechanics, car washers, and sales agents, raising fears over potential job losses if relocation is not well managed.
Despite the announcement, business activity along the corridor continued as normal on Wednesday, with operators awaiting further guidance on relocation plans.
Government has urged all stakeholders to respect the directive, saying the move is necessary to create a safer and more organised urban environment.