A group of traders in Kampala has staged a protest by closing their shops in response to what they describe as exorbitant rent hikes imposed by their landlords.
The traders, who operate in several major arcades, including Skylight, Nakasero Complex, Saasa, Mid City, and the Qualicel Bus Terminal, have voiced concerns over rent increases charged in US dollars, alongside the rising tax burdens imposed by the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA).
According to John Kampala, the leader of the Federation of Uganda Traders Association (FUTA), the traders are fed up with what they consider the ongoing mistreatment by landlords.
He highlighted that despite repeated requests, landlords have refused to comply with the Prime Minister’s directive to address these concerns.
Kampala emphasized that the situation has become untenable, with many traders struggling to keep up with the combined pressure of foreign-currency-based rent and high taxes, which he claims are crippling their businesses.
By Olivia Nabaggala
4th Nov 2025
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