By Diana N. Kintu
Kampala: The Government has held a consultative dialogue with leaders of Born-Again Pentecostal Churches to address concerns arising from the ongoing implementation of the trade order in urban centres.
According to the statement, the meeting was convened by Hon. Raphael Magyezi, Minister of Local Government, and attended by Pastor Joseph Serwada, who led the Joint Leadership of Pentecostal Churches, as well as senior government officials.
The trade order exercise, initiated through a circular issued in March, seeks to restore order in urban centres by enforcing compliance with urban planning regulations, improving sanitation, and creating a safer, more organized business environment.
Mr. Ben Kumumanya, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Local Government, who issued the circular, highlighted progress made so far.
“We must protect the gains made so far,” he said, noting improved organization in towns such as Mbale, Hoima, Nyendo, and Kasese, increased occupancy of gazetted markets, decongested roads, restored drainage systems, and enhanced sanitation.
During the dialogue, religious leaders raised concerns about enforcement affecting places of worship, including instances where churches not located in restricted areas, such as wetlands or road reserves, were disrupted. They also cited inconsistent enforcement and misconduct by some field officers.
The government acknowledged these concerns and committed to further investigation.
“Places of worship that are operating within the law should not be adversely affected. We are strengthening the breakdown and communication of standard operating procedures to guide enforcement across all local governments, so that implementation is clear, consistent, and leaves no room for confusion,” Hon. Magyezi emphasized.
The meeting agreed on several key actions, including strengthening enforcement guidelines, allowing additional time for consultations and public sensitization, and convening a follow‑up dialogue after broader stakeholder engagement.
According to the statement, the meeting was attended by senior government stakeholders including Hon. Milly Babalanda, Minister for the Presidency; Hon. David Bahati, Minister of State for Trade, Industry and Cooperatives (Industry); Hon. Hellen Asamo, Minister of State for Gender, Labour and Social Development (PWDs); and Hon. Peace Mutuzo, Minister of State for Gender, Labour and Social Development (Culture).
The dialogue reflects the government’s commitment to balancing urban order with respect for religious freedoms, while ensuring that enforcement of trade regulations is transparent, fair, and consistent.