Frustrated by the lack of progress, the traders have resolved to close their shops on the 6th of the upcoming month if their demands are not met.
KAMPALA, UGANDA – Traders operating in Kampala have called upon Parliament to revise the Landlord and Tenants Act, stating that the current law is insufficient to address the injustices they face. Their demands were voiced during a consultative meeting held in the city.
The traders specifically cited the provision allowing for a 10 per cent annual rent increase, arguing that it is unjust and does not reflect the current economic realities. A major point of contention is the landlords' failure to observe the two-month notification period stipulated by the law before imposing such increments.
The meeting was prompted by the actions of businessman Kyesswa William, who allegedly conspired with others, including Tom Kitandwe, to raise rent for traders in Transinite and Link Arcade without providing the legally required two-month notice, a move that has severely crippled businesses.
Addressing the gathering, the Vice Chairperson of the Uganda Traders and Entrepreneurs Association (UTEA), Aidah Nanziri, urged traders to remain united. She cited the previous success in resisting an 18 per cent charge, which was eventually withdrawn after strong collective resistance from the traders.
In a move to strengthen their position, the traders appointed a ten-member committee tasked with negotiating with landlords on their behalf whenever disputes arise.
The General Secretary of the Kampala Advocacy Arcaders Forum, Damulira Francis, expressed dismay at the persistent habit of unilateral rent increases despite strong objections from tenants. He also briefed the traders on the outcomes of a recent meeting with the Prime Minister.
Robert Atennyi, the Chairperson of Trade Link Arcade, questioned why Kyesswa was introducing new charges for electricity and garbage collection on top of the rent hikes.
Meanwhile, the Chairperson of UTEA, Robert Ntale, pointed out that the existing law contains many loopholes that landlords exploit. He reminded landlords of the crucial role tenants play in sustaining and advertising their business properties.
Frustrated by the lack of progress, the traders have resolved to close their shops on the 6th of the upcoming month if their demands are not met.
The Landlord and Tenants Act was passed by Parliament in 2022 with the primary aim of regulating and resolving the relationship between landlords and tenants.
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