KAMPALA, Uganda — A fire broke out at Haruna Tower in Kkubbiri, Wandegeya, sending thick plumes of smoke into the sky and triggering panic in one of Kampala’s busiest commercial districts.
The six-storey building, located opposite the synagogue of Samuel Kakande, caught fire on its upper floors, according to eyewitnesses, before the flames rapidly spread across sections of the structure.
Traders and residents in the densely populated area were seen fleeing as the fire intensified, raising concerns over potential casualties and property damage.
Authorities moved swiftly to contain the situation, with police officers arriving at the scene and cordoning off the surrounding area to control crowds and minimise risk.
However, by the time of reporting, fire and rescue teams had not yet reached the scene, delaying efforts to contain the blaze and fuelling anxiety among onlookers.
The cause of the fire remains unknown, and officials have yet to issue a formal statement. Emergency responders are expected to assess the structural integrity of the building once firefighting operations commence.
Urban fire incidents remain a recurring challenge in Kampala, often exacerbated by delayed emergency response, limited firefighting infrastructure, and densely packed commercial zones.
Past incidents in the city have highlighted concerns over compliance with fire safety regulations, including inadequate exits, poor electrical wiring, and lack of firefighting equipment in buildings.
Also Read: Staff and tourists among 25 killed in Indian nightclub fire
According to Uganda Police annual crime data, fire outbreaks, particularly in markets and commercial buildings, continue to result in significant economic losses each year.
Experts attribute many of these incidents to electrical faults, flammable materials, and weak enforcement of safety standards.
The incident at Haruna Tower underscores growing concerns about preparedness in high-density urban centres, especially in areas like Wandegeya, where heavy foot traffic and mixed-use buildings heighten vulnerability.
Residents and businesses in the area remain on high alert as authorities work to stabilise the situation. Updates are expected as emergency services respond and investigations begin.
