Govt pledges action on Napier Market redevelopment

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The Ministry of Local Government has reassured vendors at Napier Market in Jinja city that the government remains committed to constructing a modern market to improve their working conditions and boost business opportunities.

During a meeting with vendors on March 28, 2025, local government minister Raphael Magyezi assured traders that the project is still on course and is currently before the Office of the President, where key preparations, including funding arrangements, are being finalised.

"We are aware of the challenges that vendors at Napier Market have been facing. We want to assure you that this project remains a priority. The government is working closely with Jinja city authorities to ensure construction begins as soon as possible," Magyezi stated.

Stephen Kagoda, the chairperson of Napier Market, raised concerns over the delayed construction, saying the market is at risk of being taken over by land grabbers. He explained that part of the land had already been taken by an alleged investor, but they managed to secure a title for the remaining portion.

"The delayed redevelopment has put our land at risk of being grabbed and has also significantly affected our businesses. Many traders currently operate under makeshift structures, struggling with limited space, poor sanitation, exposure to harsh weather conditions, and a lack of a drainage system," Kagoda said.

He added that they were promised redevelopment after President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni visited the market during the 2021 presidential campaigns.

"We were promised this market years ago by President Museveni in 2021 during the presidential campaigns, but we are still waiting. Many of us are working in difficult conditions, and customers are discouraged by the poor environment," he said.

Kagoda noted that they had written several reminders to the Office of the Prime Minister and the Office of the President and were still waiting for a response.

Minister Magyezi, however, reassured vendors that once completed, the market would be a game-changer for Jinja city, providing a modern and organised space for vendors while also attracting more customers and improving business efficiency.

The minister said the new market would feature designated stalls, storage facilities, improved sanitation services, a proper drainage system, access routes, and modern security systems.

He added that the government would continue engaging with the vendors throughout the process to ensure their concerns are addressed and that the market meets their needs.

Minister for the Presidency, Milly Babalanda, challenged Jinja city authorities to account for the Napier Market tenderer, who collects sh29 million per month but only remits sh3 million to the authorities from over 3,500 vendors.

"All that money is collected in the market—where does the rest of it go? Jinja City Council isn’t aware, and we need an immediate response because we need a solution to every challenge," she said.

Minister Magyezi demanded accountability and instructed Nathan Kitakule, the Southern Division town clerk, to temporarily provide security lighting, water, and toilet facilities, as well as improve market cleanliness until construction begins.

Juliet Nandego, a vendor, welcomed the renewed commitment but urged swift action.

"We appreciate the reassurance, but we need action. Many of us depend on this market for our livelihoods, and the sooner construction starts, the better for everyone," she said.