Property worth millions of shillings has been destroyed after a devastating fire swept through the timber and furniture market along Major Victor Bwana Road in Mbarara City early this morning, leaving traders counting heavy losses and authorities investigating the cause of the blaze.
The fire is reported to have broken out before dawn, quickly spreading through the market where large quantities of timber, furniture, sawdust, and other highly flammable materials are stored. Thick smoke and towering flames engulfed several timber stores and workshops, making it difficult for traders and nearby residents to salvage their property.
Business owners rushed to the scene in a desperate attempt to rescue timber, furniture, machinery, and tools, but many watched helplessly as years of investment were reduced to ashes. Preliminary estimates indicate that property worth millions of shillings has been destroyed, although officials say the exact value of the losses will only be established after a comprehensive assessment.
Police and the Fire and Rescue Services responded to the incident and managed to contain the flames before they spread to nearby businesses. By mid-morning, officers had cordoned off the area as investigations into the cause of the fire commenced. Authorities have not yet determined what triggered the inferno, and no official confirmation has been made regarding casualties or injuries.
The latest incident has revived concerns among traders over fire preparedness in the timber market. The area has experienced similar fire outbreaks in previous years, prompting repeated calls for improved firefighting infrastructure, better access roads for emergency responders, and stricter fire safety measures to protect businesses from future disasters.
City leaders and security officials are expected to assess the extent of the damage before announcing any support or intervention for the affected traders. Meanwhile, many business owners face the difficult task of rebuilding after suffering significant financial losses.