By Joseph Kiggundu
Concerns have been raised in Parliament over the increasing number of fire outbreaks in markets within Kampala, following a recent incident that left hundreds of traders counting heavy losses.
The Shadow Minister for Education, Gonzaga Ssewungu, questioned government over the continued destruction caused by fires, citing the blaze at Katwe Market on 15 March 2026, which reportedly affected more than 700 businesses and destroyed goods worth millions of shillings.
Ssewungu asked government to provide a detailed explanation on the recurring incidents, noting that similar cases have also been reported in other areas, including Jinja.
He further pointed out that many commercial buildings and storage facilities in the city lack basic fire safety infrastructure such as hydrants, and urged the Kampala Capital City Authority to prioritize installing fire-fighting equipment in markets and arcades.
Presiding over the session, Speaker Anita Annet Among called for adequate funding to enable KCCA to address the growing challenges. She also advised Ssewungu to review findings from a parliamentary committee report that had earlier highlighted operational gaps within the authority.
Responding on behalf of government, the Attorney General, Kiryowa Kiwanuka, pledged to present the matter to KCCA leadership as well as the Minister responsible for Kampala affairs.
In a related development, the Leader of the Opposition, Joel Ssenyonyi, asked government to clarify circumstances under which KCCA arrested vendors who were demolishing parts of a building, only for the authority to later carry out the demolition itself.
His concerns were supported by Ronald Balimwezo, who called for a comprehensive explanation from the responsible minister. Balimwezo noted that the incident led to the loss of two lives and questioned why no accountability had been established despite confirmation that a demolition order had been issued.
He suggested forming a parliamentary committee to investigate the matter. However, Speaker Among ruled out the need for a new committee, stating that KCCA would instead appear before the Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises to address the concerns.
