After more than a decade of anticipation, traders in Wakiso District are finally seeing the realization of a long-promised dream. Construction of the modern Wakiso Central Daily Market has officially commenced, marking a major milestone in the districtโs economic transformation and bringing renewed hope to hundreds of vendors who have endured years of operating in overcrowded and inadequate trading conditions.
The Shs20.3 billion project, funded under the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area Urban Development Programme (GKMA-UDP), was launched during a groundbreaking ceremony attended by government officials, district leaders, and members of the local business community.
For many traders, the start of construction represents the fulfillment of a pledge first made by President Yoweri Museveni 11 years ago. The modern market is expected to provide a safer, cleaner, and more organized environment for business, while improving livelihoods and enhancing the overall trading experience.
Speaking at the launch, Monica Edemacu, the Under Secretary in the Ministry of Greater Kampala Metropolitan Affairs, emphasized the importance of timely implementation of government-funded projects. She warned local governments against delays that often result in the loss or reallocation of development funds intended for essential infrastructure such as markets, roads, and drainage systems.
Edemacu also urged contractors to uphold fair labor practices, cautioning against the exploitation of local workers through delayed or unpaid wages. She stressed that communities hosting development projects deserve respect and equitable treatment.
The Minister of State for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs, Kabuye Kyofatogabye, encouraged traders to prepare for the opportunities the new facility will offer by embracing professionalism and maintaining high standards of cleanliness. He noted that proper hygiene and a professional appearance can significantly enhance customer confidence and attract more business.
Meanwhile, Wakiso District Chairperson Ian Kyeyune challenged the contractor to deliver high-quality work that reflects the scale of government investment and serves traders for generations to come.
Concerns over the management of market stalls were also addressed during the event. Wakiso District Chief Administrative Officer Mark Jude Bukenya issued a stern warning against the illegal allocation of stalls, urging traders to report anyone soliciting money or falsely claiming authority to assign market spaces.
The market is being constructed by Techno Three Uganda Limited and is expected to be completed within 12 months. Once finished, it will feature modern amenities including ample parking space, a vocational training centre, childcare facilities, salons, and other services designed to improve business operations and support tradersโ daily needs.
The project is expected to reduce congestion, improve sanitation, and create a more secure and efficient trading environment. To facilitate construction, vendors have been temporarily relocated to a nearby site where they will operate rent-free for approximately 18 months.
Traders have welcomed the development with optimism, expressing hope that the project will be completed on schedule and usher in a new chapter of growth and prosperity for the community.
The Wakiso Central Daily Market stands as one of several strategic infrastructure projects being implemented under the GKMA-UDP programme, reflecting governmentโs broader commitment to modernizing urban centers, improving service delivery, and stimulating economic activity across the rapidly growing Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area.
