Traders at Nakasero Market in central Kampala were left assessing losses after a fire broke out around 9:00 a.m., believed to have been caused by an electrical fault.
The blaze destroyed merchandise, including clothes, fruits, and other goods, leaving many struggling to determine what could be salvaged.
One trader blamed poor maintenance for the incident, noting that the market’s old electrical transformer was overloaded. “KCCA has failed us.
They should have maintained the market, but the old transformer was overloaded and used by too many people,” he said.
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni sent his advisor on market affairs, Faridah Kimuli, to assess the damage.
After visiting the site, Kimuli urged the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) to act swiftly.
“KCCA must act quickly to fix the electrical system to protect traders and prevent future disasters,” she said.
Dan Nuwabine, KCCA spokesperson, confirmed the fire and said investigations are ongoing. He appealed for calm among traders while authorities determine the cause.
“Please maintain peace to allow for proper investigation,” he added.
Founded in 1927, Nakasero Market is one of Uganda’s oldest and busiest markets. Traders say that despite its significance, the market has long suffered from poor maintenance, leading to repeated safety hazards.
