How trade order enforcement is rewriting Jinja City’s economic story

A section of a building being transformed into lock-up shops for business operators along Gabula Road in Jinja City following the trade order that affected many traders. PHOTO/DENIS EDEMA

For years, Jinja City’s commercial pulse was defined by the chaotic hum of makeshift kiosks, congested walkways, and a sprawling informal trade sector that choked the streets. While the bustle signified high activity, it came at a steep cost to the city’s urban planning, infrastructure preservation, and local revenue collection.

Today, however, Jinja is witnessing a dramatic economic and structural facelift. The transformation of the city’s business landscape, including the rapid redevelopment of several previously idle commercial buildings, is being largely attributed to strengthened trade order enforcement and improved urban organization. This robust cleanup exercise is being spearheaded by the city’s dedicated trade order enforcement team.

The financial dividends of this newfound order are staggering. Jinja City Council’s local revenue has grown exponentially, skyrocketing from Shs2 billion to Shs15 billion following the strategic reorganization of trade activities and council projects. Municipal authorities are not stopping there; local revenue is projected to rise further to Shs20 billion in the next financial year.

At the heart of this sweeping overhaul is Mr. Sowali Mulyangere, the Head of Trade Order Enforcement. Several city leaders have credited Mr. Mulyangere for playing a central role in turning around the city's financial fortunes through strict supervision, compliance monitoring, and the uncompromising enforcement of business regulations.However, bringing order to a bustling urban center rarely comes without friction. Mr. Mulyangere has become a frequent and polarizing subject of discussion within the local business community and on radio talk shows across Jinja City. Critics have leveled various accusations against him, primarily targeting his firm, no-nonsense enforcement style that applies trade regulations without favoritism.

Responding to the swirling public criticism, Mr Mulyangere remained defiant yet measured, stating that he is simply duty-bound to implement the provisions of the Local Government Act. He emphasized that the enforcement exercise is not unique to Jinja but is part of a broader, nationwide urban alignment strategy.“I am simply carrying out my mandate in accordance with the Local Government Act. The enforcement of trade order regulations is a nationwide exercise and is not limited to Jinja City,” Mr. Mulyangere stated.

He acknow