Hundreds of traders are grappling with catastrophic losses following last night fire that gutted Ndeeba in Kasumba Zone Lubaga Division
The worst-hit were those dealing in timber and woodworking machinery, whose livelihoods were reduced to ashes overnight.
Frustrated by recurring fire outbreaks, the affected traders are struggling to maintain sustainable businesses. Many have now made a desperate appeal to the government for support, saying these repeated disasters have left them with nothing to fall back on.
This morning, a somber scene unfolded as traders gathered to inspect the aftermath of the blaze that razed their goods to the ground.
Reports indicate the fire broke out at night, around 10:30 am. By morning, thick smoke still hung in the air, and all the timber and woodworking machinery had been reduced to rubble.
The sight left many traders in visible despair some sat helplessly on the ground, heads in their hands, while others moved through the ruins, overwhelmed by the scale of destruction.
Among the ruins, a few traders attempted to salvage what little remained. Scrap dealers had already begun collecting burnt metal and charcoal, highlighting the complete devastation.
Speaking to several traders, it became clear that fear of fire has been part of their daily lives for months, with no clear understanding of the causes behind the frequent outbreaks.
Theories were exchanged among the traders, but no official cause has yet been identified.
The traders, many of whom operated under heavy loans, said they now have nothing left.
"We have lost everything and urgently need support," one trader said.
They also expressed deep frustration over the government's decision to allocate 100 million shillings to Members of Parliament, while they, the ordinary citizens whose businesses have been destroyed, receive no assistance.
The gravity of the situation drew several leaders from Lubaga Division to the scene. Lubaga South MP, Aloysius Mukasa, led a team to commiserate with the affected traders.
MP Mukasa emphasised the urgent need to establish fire brigade stations and emergency water supply lines in vulnerable trading zones, criticising the government's focus on giving large sums to legislators rather than investing in critical infrastructure.
The affected zone was a vibrant hub for multiple businesses, including timber yards, carpentry workshops, and food vending stalls.
According to Fred Lukwago, Chairperson of the Ndeeba traders, the area supported over 4,500 people. He revealed that the land is owned by three landlords, including the government.
Lukwago has called for major reforms including separating food vendors from timber dealers, establishing proper road networks and firebreak pathways and creating a financial support system for traders, many of whom were indebted to money lenders and have now lost their means of repayment.
Meanwhile, a fire brigade truck was seen leaving the area after exhausting its water supply during the firefighting effort, raising serious concerns about the adequacy of emergency services in densely populated trading areas.
As we left the scene, the mood remained heavy with sorrow and uncertainty. Many traders continue to wait and hope that government leaders will step in and offer them the urgent help they so desperately need to rebuild their shattered businesses.