By Alice
Vendors formerly operating at Mpanga Market along Kampala Road in Fort Portal City are raising concerns over declining sales and poor working conditions following their relocation to a designated garage site, commonly referred to as a container village.
The traders say the move, enforced by the Fort Portal City Council, has significantly disrupted their businesses, leaving many struggling to earn a daily income.
Muhanguzi Godfrey, one of the affected vendors, described the new location as unfavorable for business, citing a sharp drop in customer turnout. He explained that the area is less accessible and lacks the steady flow of buyers they previously depended on at Mpanga Market.
In addition to reduced sales, Muhanguzi noted that vendors are facing challenges accessing essential supplies such as cooking oil and wheat flour, which are necessary for their day-to-day operations.
The relocation follows an enforcement operation that began on March 16, 2026, after a directive issued by City Clerk Ambrose Ocen. The exercise aimed to clear street vendors, kiosks, and other informal structures from unregulated trading spaces in an effort to restore order within the city.
However, traders say the new site lacks basic infrastructure. Muhanguzi raised concerns over inadequate lighting and security, noting that the area becomes unsafe after dark due to poor visibility.
He has appealed to city authorities to install street lighting and strengthen security measures to protect vendors and their property.
Similar concerns were echoed by Kweezi Mary, who was relocated from VOT Street to Kibogo Road. She pointed out that the new location is not only poorly lit but also affected by uncollected garbage, creating an unhealthy trading environment.
Vendors are now calling on city leaders to address these challenges urgently, warning that without intervention, many small businesses risk collapsing under the current conditions.