Kampala, Uganda – In a brazen overnight operation that has left vendors and residents reeling, unknown individuals demolished a key structure in St. Balikudembe (Owino) Market, one of Kampala’s largest and most vital trading hubs.
The incident, which occurred under the cover of darkness on March 7, 2026, has sparked widespread shock and accusations of foul play, with many questioning how such an act could unfold in the heart of the city without official notice.
According to a statement released by the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) spokesperson early on March 8, “At approximately 10:00 p.m, in the night of 7th March 2026, persons yet to be identified descended upon a structure forming part of St. Balikudembe Market, located at the boundary of Nakivubo Channel along Sebana Road, and demolished it without authorization.” The authority condemned the act as reckless, noting that “This reckless demolition, carried out under the cover of darkness, was done without obtaining demolition permit from the City Authority.”
Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with heavy machinery—including at least two excavators—tearing down the structure, leaving piles of rubble and twisted metal in its wake. Photos circulating on social media show a yellow CAT excavator amid the debris, with a red container-like building partially collapsed against a starry night sky. The market, which serves thousands of small-scale traders dealing in everything from clothing to electronics, now faces disruptions that could affect livelihoods.
KCCA assured the public of swift action: “@KCCAUG, in collaboration with sister agencies, is actively working to salvage what remains of the structure and ensure that those responsible for this destruction of a public good are brought to book.” They added that “Operators of the two machines which were being used to demolish have been arrested by the police and investigations into the matter have commenced.”
Email:homelandnewspaper@gmail.com
