Kabaka's Visit Ignites Hope for Katwe Market Traders After Devastating Fire

Katwe Market in Kampala remains scarred by a fierce fire on March 15 that wiped out livelihoods for more than 200 traders. The blaze, possibly sparked by a power surge, spread rapidly from traditional medicine stalls, leaving behind ashes and acrid smoke.

Traders like George William Sevume, a matooke seller with 35 years at the market, lost staggering amounts—over 180,000 bunches of bananas and Shs4m in cash. Fatumah Nalweyiso saw her six sacks of groceries go up in flames, forcing her to restart with minimal capital. Elderly vendor Nalongo Nagalabi, 82, is now penniless after decades of work.

Compounding the tragedy, initial firefighting efforts faltered: security blocked access to prevent looting, and the first two fire trucks arrived without water. By the time help arrived effectively, much was lost.

Hope emerged when Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II visited the site soon after. Standing amid the rubble, he urged traders to reconstruct stalls immediately, recognizing their reliance on daily income. He directed Rexba Limited, the kingdom’s royal markets manager, to register victims and aid recovery.

Information Minister Israel Kazibwe confirmed the registration process is underway to enable quick support. Market manager Levis Ssenkungu noted ongoing security contributions but called for improvements.

Established in 1954 by Kabaka Edward Muteesa II for widows and low-income women, Katwe is a historic hub for matooke, charcoal, fish, welding, and herbal remedies—part of Buganda’s informal economy alongside markets like Kasubi and Kalerwe.

Traders are erecting makeshift stalls, resilient despite setbacks. Nalweyiso shared, ‘Our hopes have been raised by the Kabaka’s visit at this our darkest hour. He has reaffirmed that no fire can destroy our bond.’

This article is based on a report from the Daily Monitor: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/homes-and-property/kabaka-s-visit-brings-hope-to-katwe-traders-5402144.