Nyakatonzi LCIII chairperson issues six-day ultimatum to illegal traders

1 July 2026, 9:16 am

By Kyamanduma Patrick

Illegally operated businesses given six-day ultimatum to vacate

Mr Steven Mbera, the Local Council III Chairperson of Nyakatonzi Sub-county in Kasese District, has given a six-day ultimatum to individuals illegally operating businesses in Kisanga–Nyamugasana Village to vacate the area or face arrest.

Addressing residents of Nyamugasana and Rwentuha villages yesterday, Mr Mbera directed persons involved in casual labour and street businesses to obtain introduction letters from their respective LC I chairpersons and submit them to his office before undertaking any developments on the land.

Mr Mbera also advised charcoal dealers operating in Kigando to stop producing charcoal in Nyakatonzi, saying the practice is contributing to deforestation and the loss of grazing land, as much of the pasture has reportedly been destroyed by charcoal burning.

Some residents, including Ms Nerveless Ithungu, like others who rely on casual labour provided by pastoralists and contract work, described the eviction order as untimely.

Mr Kenneth Muyambi Muhumuza, the Chairperson of Muhumuza Cattle Keepers, said they would first consult the political leadership before implementing Mr Mbera’s directive. He explained that the affected people had initially been contracted to uproot Lantana camara, an invasive plant species that has affected pasture for livestock.