DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sjahss.2025.v13i04.002

Pages: 68-75

This study investigates the levels of stakeholder participation in planning for the effective management of Kabale and Mbarara Central Markets in Uganda. Using a descriptive case study design, data were collected through interviews, and questionnaires. The findings reveal that stakeholder participation remains limited and largely consultative, with minimal influence in decision-making. Market vendors, often feel sidelined in key planning stages such as market research, budgeting and resource allocation, and implementation and control. This exclusion has contributed to poor service delivery, resource allocation, and project sustainability having limited cultivation of trust and shared responsibility, which is vital during the implementation stage. The study underscores the need to adopt a more inclusive and participatory planning approach that empowers stakeholders to contribute effectively to market governance. It recommends strengthening participatory budgeting, promoting participation in market research, and developing feedback loops to facilitate joint market planning for successful market governance. By recognizing stakeholders as critical actors in planning, urban authorities can foster greater ownership, improve market operations, and promote sustainable management of public markets. The study contributes to literature on participatory urban governance and offers practical insights for policymakers, planners, and development practitioners seeking to enhance stakeholder engagement in urban market management.