Business came to a standstill in parts of downtown Kampala on [day] after traders operating in buildings linked to city tycoon Drake Lubega closed their shops in protest against what they called an exorbitant rent increment.
The affected commercial buildings include Energy Center, Kabaale Arcade, Money Center (Mini Price), Katonga Business Center, Apple Tower, and Virna Arcade. Traders say the increment contravenes the recently passed Landlord and Tenant Act, which was designed to regulate landlord–tenant relations in Uganda.
Traders Reject Rent Hike
Traders accused Lubega of raising rent arbitrarily without considering the country’s current economic hardships.
“He increases rent whenever he feels like without considering the situation we face as tenants,” one trader at Katonga Business Center told Kelele UG.
They vowed to keep their shops closed until the increments are cancelled.
Drake Lubega Responds Through PA
When contacted by Kelele UG, Lubega’s Personal Assistant defended the increment, saying the businessman does not directly own the buildings but instead earns a commission as part of his business operations.
According to the PA, Lubega maintains that Kampala City has become a hub for the wealthy, and tenants unable to afford the increased rates should seek more affordable premises elsewhere.
Law vs. Practice
The standoff has reignited debate around the Landlord and Tenant Act, which was passed by Parliament earlier this year to protect tenants from exploitation and streamline rental agreements. However, traders argue that the law has yet to be effectively enforced.
What’s Next?
For now, several arcades remain closed, with traders insisting they will not reopen until their demands are addressed. The shutdown threatens to disrupt trade flows in Kampala’s central business district, a vital hub for retail and wholesale commerce.
Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and the Ministry of Trade are yet to issue an official response
