Excitement filled Kololo Independence Grounds on Tuesday as President Yoweri Museveni gave street vendors in Kampala a major financial boost. Over Shs 300 million was distributed to hawkers, with each receiving Shs 100,000 to grow their businesses. The vendors, who had brought their merchandise to the event, also had their goods purchased by the government, adding to their earnings.

The State House Comptroller, Jane Barekye, who delivered the money on behalf of the President, explained that this was part of a larger effort to support informal traders and bring them into the formal economy. She emphasized President Museveni’s commitment to helping even the most vulnerable Ugandans.

“The President wants every Ugandan to be part of the money economy. That is why he is reaching out to street vendors with financial support. This program has been running, and it will continue across the country,” Ms. Barekye told the excited crowd.

She added that the President would monitor how the funds are used to determine the next steps in supporting the vendors. She also thanked Moses Byaruhanga, the Senior Presidential Advisor on Political Mobilization, for organizing the event and ensuring a smooth process.

Hajjat Minsa Kabanda, the Minister for Kampala and Metropolitan Affairs, delivered the President’s greetings and urged the vendors to keep the city clean. She reminded them to avoid littering and operating in unauthorized areas.

“Please do not work in wrong places or throw waste on the streets. We need a clean Kampala. Carry bags for your banana peels and fruit waste, and avoid stepping on green spaces,” she said.

Hajjat Kabanda also encouraged the vendors to join other government programs like the Presidential Skilling Centers, the Parish Development Model (PDM), and Emyooga. She then made a direct political appeal, asking them to support the National Resistance Movement (NRM) in the 2026 elections.

“President Museveni will be on the ballot in 2026. Please vote for him and all NRM candidates. Where you see the bus, tick it,” she said, referring to the party’s symbol.

Moses Byaruhanga praised the vendors for staying organized, which made it easier for the government to identify their needs and offer support. He dismissed concerns that helping street vendors would encourage more unregulated hawking, saying the government cannot ignore their struggles.

“We cannot leave them to suffer just because we fear more people will come. As the city becomes more organized, they will find better places to work where customers can easily reach them,” he said.

He also reminded the vendors to follow Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) rules to maintain cleanliness and order in the city.

Salim Uhuru, the Mayor of Kampala Central Division, thanked President Museveni for supporting the vendors and recognizing their role in the city’s economy. He urged them to show their gratitude in the upcoming elections.

“Others want to chase you away, but President Museveni insists that you stay and work for your families. Do not forget to vote for him,” he said.

The event was attended by several leaders, including Hajjat Sarah Kanyike, the Presidential Advisor on Kampala Affairs, as well as NRM officials and local party chairpersons.

The vendors left the grounds with smiles, hopeful that the financial boost would help them grow their businesses and improve their lives. For many, the support was a sign that the government had not forgotten them, despite their daily struggles on the streets of Kampala.

As the program continues, more street vendors across the country can expect similar support, bringing them one step closer to financial stability and a brighter future.