Ethiopian Businesswoman Charged for Operating Illegally in Uganda, Remanded Alongside Two Lawyers
Kampala, Uganda – Tigist Ayalew, an Ethiopian national, has been charged and remanded by the Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court for allegedly conducting private business in Uganda without a valid work permit.
Prosecutors accuse Ayalew of unlawfully serving as the director of Ephrata Investments and operating two popular nightlife spots—Hide Out Lounge and Circuit Lounge—between 2021 and May 2025. She appeared in court alongside two Ugandan lawyers, Bob Mwanjuzi and Lawrence Kalamu, who are also implicated in the case.
The trio has been remanded until August 21, pending the state’s response to their bail applications. The charges highlight Uganda’s ongoing crackdown on foreign nationals operating businesses without proper documentation.
Authorities have not disclosed further details on the lawyers’ alleged involvement, but legal experts suggest they may have facilitated Ayalew’s business dealings.
This case follows increased enforcement of Uganda’s immigration and business laws, with several foreign entrepreneurs facing similar charges in recent months.
