Traders at Njeru Nile Market in Naava village, Njeru Central Division, Buikwe district are grappling with heavy losses after a devastating fire tore through the busy market on Saturday, September 6th, 2025, destroying property valued at millions of shillings.

According to SP Hellen Butoto, the Ssezibwa Regional Police spokesperson, two people sustained injuries in the blaze.

“The fire destroyed numerous stalls and merchandise, affecting hundreds of traders who depend on the market for their livelihoods,” SP Butoto said.

She also revealed that the police fire brigade, together with support from the Jinja Police Fire Brigade, GM Sugar fire team, and Nytil firefighters, rushed to the scene to contain the flames and prevent them from spreading to neighboring areas.

“I extend my gratitude to the other fire response teams whose efforts helped contain the fire and prevented further damage,” SP Butoto added.

Despite the swift response, many traders lost stock, cash, and equipment, raising concerns about the financial hardship faced by affected families.

The injured were taken to Jinja Regional Referral Hospital for treatment, while investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing.

The incident has sent shock waves through the community, highlighting the need for improved fire safety measures in crowded marketplaces.

In 2025, there have been several notable fire incidents related to marketplaces and commercial areas in Jinja.

On February 25,2025, a massive fire broke out at the Suppliers World Warehouse along Engineer Zikusooka Road in Jinja City. The fire rapidly spread across several warehouses, destroying property worth millions of shillings.Firefighters from both police and private establishments, including Kakira Sugar Ltd, battled the blaze. Authorities heightened security measures to protect nearby government fuel reserves, which were in close proximity to the fire scene.

Additionally, in the wee hours of August 29th,2025, a devastating fire engulfed Ambercourt Market in Jinja City. The blaze destroyed over 120 stalls, including wooden structures used for selling groceries, furniture, and electronics. Traders reported losses in the millions of shillings. The fire is suspected to have been caused by poor electrical connections.

Earlier in 2025, a fire at a timber shop on Spire Road, Jinja resulted in one death and significant losses to traders.

These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges related to fire safety and infrastructure in Jinja’s marketplaces and commercial hubs.