Juba City Council Issues Final Notice to Street Vendors

(JUBA CITY) – Juba City Council has issued a final seven day legal notice ordering street vendors and operators of temporary structures to vacate public spaces across the city.

The notice applies to restaurants, kusuks, washing bays, hawkers and other traders operating from temporary shelters along roads, pavements, roundabouts and drainage channels. It also covers businesses in areas not approved as markets.

The Council said the order takes effect immediately and follows an earlier notice issued last month giving the same deadline for relocation. The action is based on the Local Government Act 2009 and city bylaws.

Officials said the move is intended to ease traffic congestion, improve public safety and allow free movement for pedestrians. The Council also said the measure will support sanitation, road maintenance and infrastructure development in line with Juba’s master plan and zoning rules.

The Deputy Mayor for Environment, who led the team delivering the notice, said many temporary structures have contributed to poor sanitation.

He said waste is often hidden behind parking areas, leaving parts of the city unclean. He added that some structures are being misused by street children, raising health and safety concerns.

The Council has directed affected traders to move to designated market areas, approved business zones or private properties with proper authorisation.

Authorities warned that failure to comply within seven days will lead to enforcement action, including confiscation of goods, demolition of illegal structures and possible prosecution.

The Deputy Mayor said business operators should move to recognised markets. “Business people should follow the market, not the market following the people,” he said, urging traders to occupy available shops within established markets.

The directive has drawn mixed reactions from residents. Dut Aguang Dut questioned the timing of the order, saying many citizens depend on small scale trade to survive.

He said authorities should focus on dialogue and public awareness. He also asked where the designated business areas are located and whether city planning is being implemented from top leadership down to local level. He warned that pressure on ordinary citizens could trigger unrest if not handled carefully.

Another resident, Madit Ring Chol, compared the move to building a fence after goats are stolen. He asked where vendors are expected to relocate, arguing that some local markets are already crowded.

He also claimed that foreigners dominate parts of Konykonyo Market, Jebel Market, Customs Market and Juba Town Market and called on the Council to address that issue.

Street trade remains a key source of income for many families in Juba at a time of high living costs and limited formal employment.

The Council has not announced any financial penalties for non compliance, but enforcement measures are expected after the seven day deadline expires.