Balimwezo Seeks Phased Eviction of Traders from Basement Shops

What the report says

Kampala Lord Mayor Ronald Balimwezo has called for a phased removal of traders from basement spaces that were originally approved for parking, saying sudden eviction could hurt businesses that have operated there for years. The remarks, reported by Nile Post, came during a Wednesday meeting as city authorities weighed how to implement a reported directive linked to Minister of ICT and National Guidance Justine Kasule Lumumba.

Balimwezo said he supports enforcement of building regulations, but argued that officials should first verify which buildings have been altered contrary to approved plans before taking action. He said some developers converted basement parking areas into shops for commercial gain, in violation of planning and safety requirements overseen by Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA). He also warned that basement businesses face heightened flood risks during Kampala’s rainy seasons.

The mayor urged government to give affected traders time to relocate rather than carry out immediate evictions. His position was echoed in the article by Godfrey Luyombya, who called for stronger physical planning and better drainage, while suggesting future building approvals should protect parking space.

KCCA spokesperson Daniel Muhumuza Nuwabiine said the authority had received information about the directive and would work toward implementing it, though he did not outline a timetable. The discussion reflects a wider tension in Kampala between enforcement of city regulations, flood management and the protection of existing businesses.