Kampala traders announced a shutdown of their businesses starting Wednesday, demanding President Yoweri Museveni address their concerns after multiple canceled meetings.
Organized under the Kampala City Traders Association (KACITA), the traders seek a direct and respectful dialogue with the President to discuss urgent issues affecting their businesses.
Isa Ssekitto, KACITA’s spokesperson, voiced the traders’ frustrations following President Museveni’s latest cancellation of a meeting scheduled for July 31. The traders are protesting against the Electronic Fiscal Receipting and Invoicing System (EFRIS) and the heavy tax burden they claim is crippling their businesses.
“Our businesses are our livelihoods, and we are struggling under the weight of these high taxes and the EFRIS system. We need the President to see sense in meeting with us or at least communicate in a dignified way,” Ssekitto said.
Traders are also dissatisfied with Kampala Minister Minsa Kabanda, accusing her of failing to address their concerns adequately. This neglect has led to their drastic decision to shut down operations.
The planned shutdown is expected to have significant economic repercussions, as Kampala’s trading sector is crucial to the city’s economy. KACITA hopes this action will compel President Museveni to prioritize their concerns and engage in meaningful discussions.
This protest highlights the broader challenges faced by business owners in Uganda, including regulatory pressures and the need for supportive government policies. As the shutdown looms, all eyes are on President Museveni and his administration’s response.
Traders are determined to keep their businesses closed until they receive a satisfactory response from the President. The coming days will be critical in determining the future of Kampala’s trading community and their relationship with the government.
