FUTA intervenes in Ovimo dispute

15 April 2026, 4:03 pm

By Ronald Ssemagonja

Leaders of the Federation of Uganda Traders Association (FUTA) have convened a meeting at Ovimo building in Kampala to address ongoing disputes between traders and landlords, in a bid to restore harmony and improve working conditions.

The meeting, led by FUTA president John Kabanda, brought together traders, security officials, and government representatives following complaints from tenants about alleged mistreatment by building management.

Kabanda called on the government to establish a high-level committee to handle the matter, emphasizing the need for structured dialogue and long-term solutions.

“I want to thank the security forces for allowing us to have this meeting and for being part of it. Our members came to us seeking intervention over the pending issues. I am happy that we have finally found a solution that will settle these challenges,” he said.

He added that FUTA remains committed to ensuring traders operate in a conducive environment and pledged continued collaboration with all stakeholders to maintain order and fairness.

Traders at Ovimo had earlier petitioned security agencies to mediate the dispute, citing concerns over rent conditions, sanitation costs, and general treatment by landlords.

Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Resident City Commissioner for Kampala Central, Nsubuga Shafiq Ali, issued several directives aimed at restoring order. He announced that toilet fees should not exceed 100 Uganda shillings and pledged to resolve parking challenges at the premises.

“I urge security leadership to organize a meeting with the developer. The DPC must ensure security is maintained here, and electricity charges should be fair and in line with regulations,” he said.

Also speaking at the meeting, Donald Muhoozi, the coordinator of police and the general public in Kampala Metropolitan, reassured traders of continued security presence.

“We want to promise that security in this place will be maintained. We appeal to the public to work with us as we find lasting solutions to these challenges,” he noted.

The meeting was also attended by the Kampala RCC, Lule Mawuya, who reaffirmed government’s commitment to resolving the dispute and encouraged citizens to remain cooperative.

Meanwhile, representatives of Tikupati, who previously sold part of the property, agreed to work closely with tenants to ensure smooth operations moving forward.

The engagement marks a significant step toward resolving tensions at Ovimo, with stakeholders expressing optimism that the agreed measures will bring lasting peace and improved business conditions.