Traders at Smart City Market Protest Over Land Dispute

Category: Economics
Read Time: 2 mins
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Traders operating in the well-known Smart City Market (locally referred to as *Baza mu Kisenyi*) woke up this morning to a shocking situation their stalls were being demolished. They claim that those carrying out the demolitions are trying to forcefully evict them from the market.  
Background of the Marke  
This market sits on a 10-acre piece of land owned by Bosco Muwonge, a businessman who initially leased the land to Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) The government was supposed to pay him over 350 billion shillings for the lease.  
 
In 2022. Dorothy Kisaka (then KCCA Executive Director) and  Minister Minsa Kabanda  (Kampala Minister) held talks with Bosco Muwonge. They agreed that he would develop the land into a market to accommodate street vendors in Kampala, and Muwonge accepted the deal. However, the government committed to paying him $1 per square meter for the 10 acres—but three years later  they have not paid even 100 million shillings of the agreed amount.  
 
Richard Lubega - market leaders
Muwonge Takes Action
Frustrated by the government’s failure to pay, Bosco Muwonge has now sent his workers to fence off the market  in an attempt to drive out the traders, claiming the land is rightfully his since the government has not honored its agreement.  
 
Market Chairman Speaks Out.
 
Richard Lubaga the chairman of Smart City Market, spoke to us and said:  
The problem is not that the government refuses to pay Bosco Muwonge. The issue lies with the officials in the finance ministry who are delaying the payment, even though the government already released the funds long ago.
 
Dispute with the Buganda Land Board 
Lubaga further revealed that some government officials have secretly been involved the Buganda Land Board, which had granted Muwonge a 99-year lease for the land. They now want the Buganda Land Board to collect ground rent (busulu) from the market, and Muwonge has reportedly been asked to pay over 70 billion shillings 
 
However, Muwonge has refused to argue that he already paid for his lease and should not be forced to pay again.  
 
Traders Demand President’s Intervention
With their livelihoods at stake, the traders are now calling on President Museveni to intervene and resolve the matter, as they legally bought their market spaces and should not be evicted without compensation.  
 
Buganda Land Board Responds
When contacted, Buganda Land Board officials confirmed that they have an agreement with Muwonge and that he must comply with the terms, including paying the required fees. They warned that failure to do so could lead to further action.  
 
Government’s Stance
The market was officially opened by President Museveni, represented by Maj. Emma Kutesa who assured vendors that they would be relocated from the streets into this market. Efforts to reach Maj. Kutesa for a comment was unsuccessful.  
 
The situation remains tense as traders, the landlord, and government agencies clash over ownership and payments. The future of Smart City Market hangs in the balance.  
 
Kyambadde Lawrence's Avatar

Kyambadde Lawrence

Kyambade Lawrence is a journalist with extensive experience in covering community stories, using his deep understanding of local issues to create impactful narratives. His ability to connect with the community and capture the essence of their experiences makes his stories resonate deeply with audiences, often sparking meaningful change and awareness. With a genuine commitment to highlighting the voices of those in his community, Kyambade’s work goes beyond reporting—his stories inspire action and foster a sense of connection, truly making a difference where it matters most.

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