Traders in Jinja are outraged after receiving eviction notices for a government-backed pier construction project.
JINJA – Traders operating along the Nile shores in Jinja have expressed outrage after receiving eviction notices from Jinja City Council to make way for a government-backed pier construction project aimed at boosting water transport infrastructure.
The business owners, many of whom have operated for decades at the site, argue the council failed to provide adequate relocation plans or compensation timelines. "They want to chase us without showing where we should go," said one affected trader, reflecting widespread frustration among the displaced community.
Jinja City Council spokesperson Rajab Kitto defended the development plans, explaining the project will proceed in two phases: "The first phase of pier construction is complete. We're now beginning phase two, which includes building passenger pavilions, access roads, and other facilities over the next five to seven months."
Kitto urged affected traders to cooperate with the urban development initiative, promising the council would address their concerns during the construction period. The pier project forms part of broader government efforts to revitalise water transport along the Nile and enhance Jinja's tourism potential.
