Mbarara timber market fire reignites calls for stronger firefighting systems
A fire that broke out in the early hours of Tuesday (August 4) destroyed timber businesses worth billions of shillings on Victor Bwana Street in Mbarara City North Division.
Residents looking on in shock after a fire gutted timber workshops in Mbarara City. (Photo by Abdulkarim Ssengendo)
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The destruction of a section of Mbarara City's timber market has renewed calls for improved firefighting infrastructure, with authorities pointing to shortages that continue to affect emergency response.
A fire that broke out in the early hours of Tuesday (August 4) destroyed timber businesses worth billions of shillings on Victor Bwana Street in Mbarara City North Division.
While police and other responders managed to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to neighbouring permanent buildings, officials said the incident exposed challenges facing the city’s firefighting capacity.
Rwizi Region Police spokesperson Samson Kasasira said Mbarara City continues to struggle with a shortage of operational water hydrants, a challenge that affects firefighting operations.
Kasasira said the fire started at about 2:50 am, with police being notified at 3:14 am before responding to the scene.
He said police would also record statements from eyewitnesses to help establish the cause of the fire.
Kasasira commended individuals and organisations that supported the firefighting efforts and helped prevent the fire from spreading to nearby buildings.
Immaculate Nakawoya, one of the traders, said the fire was the third incident to destroy businesses in the area, adding that traders affected by previous fires had not received government assistance.
Bashir Suubi said many traders operate using bank loans and now risk severe financial challenges.
“We kindly ask the government to help us because most of the traders in this market are working under loans and we risk being arrested by banks," Eric Byamugisha, a trader, added.
Mbarara City North Division deputy mayor Edson Mushabe said authorities would register affected traders to seek government support.
Mbarara City speaker Bonny Tashobya called on Parliament to establish a policy requiring districts and cities to maintain sufficient firefighting vehicles.