Kampala, Uganda
The Ministry of Works and Transport, working alongside joint security agencies, has launched an enforcement operation to evict car bond businesses operating within the road reserve along the busy Nakawa–Ntinda corridor in Kampala.
The operation is part of the ongoing government efforts to reclaim road reserves, improve traffic flow, and enforce urban planning regulations within the capital city.
Officials from the Ministry of Works and Transport, supported by police and other security personnel, moved into the Nakawa–Ntinda corridor where several car bond operators have been conducting business along sections of the road reserve.
Witnesses reported that enforcement teams inspected premises, issued directives to affected businesses, and supervised the beginning of clearance activities in areas considered to be illegally occupied.
Authorities have not yet publicly stated how many car bonds are affected by the exercise or whether penalties will be imposed on operators found in violation of road reserve regulations.
Road reserves are legally protected public spaces designated for road infrastructure, expansion, drainage systems, pedestrian walkways, and utility installations.
Government agencies in Uganda have increasingly targeted unauthorized structures and commercial activities operating within road reserves, arguing that such encroachments obstruct planned road expansion projects and contribute to traffic congestion.
The Nakawa–Ntinda corridor is one of Kampala’s busiest transport routes, linking residential, commercial, and industrial areas in the eastern part of the city.
Urban authorities have long expressed concern over growing roadside commercial activities along major highways and city roads.
Affected car dealers said they are prepared to vacate the premises if the enforcement operation is implemented fairly and consistently.
Some operators raised concerns about what they described as selective enforcement, arguing that similar businesses and structures exist in other parts of Kampala without facing eviction.
“We are willing to leave, but the exercise should be fair and should not target only a few operators,” some dealers said.
The dealers also appealed to authorities for clear guidance, adequate notice, and equal application of the law across all affected businesses.
The operation forms part of wider government and Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) efforts to restore order in urban areas and protect public infrastructure.
Officials argue that reclaiming public land is essential for Kampala’s infrastructure modernization and future transport planning.
Kampala has experienced rapid urban growth over the past two decades, resulting in increased pressure on road networks, public transport systems, and commercial space.
The expansion of informal roadside businesses, including vehicle bonds, garages, markets, and kiosks, has frequently led to disputes between authorities and traders over land use and enforcement practices.
Urban planning experts say balancing economic activity with infrastructure protection remains one of the city’s major governance challenges.
Authorities are expected to continue inspections and enforcement operations along the Nakawa–Ntinda corridor in the coming days.
The Ministry of Works and Transport has not yet announced whether alternative relocation arrangements will be provided for affected businesses.
Meanwhile, traders and business owners are calling for transparent enforcement procedures and broader consultations to avoid economic disruption and allegations of unfair targeting.
The operation highlights the government’s continuing push to enforce urban planning regulations amid Kampala’s growing infrastructure and transportation demands.
