Ben Kumumanya, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government, has urged town clerks to prioritize infrastructure development and the hprovision of essential amenities such as water and electricity in their markets.
“This will attract more vendors and enhance revenue collection from the markets,” he said.
Kumumanya made these remarks during a meeting with town clerks from Urban Authorities responsible for overseeing the management of Markets and Agricultural Trade Improvement Program (MATIP) markets, held at the Ministry Headquarters.
He encouraged the town clerks to ensure the enforcement of the provisions of the Markets Act, particularly the clause that eliminates landlords in government-owned markets.
Kumumanya commended Gulu and Arua Cities for their efforts in restoring trade order and boosting market revenue collection, respectively.
Arua City was especially recognized for its outstanding performance in revenue collection.
The town clerk of Arua, Mr. David Kyasanku, attributed their success to the improved amenities in Arua Central Market, including consistent access to water and electricity, as well as the acquisition of garbage trucks that ensure daily garbage removal.