Oyam, Uganda | A devastating fire in Kamdini Town Council on Saturday has left nine traders counting heavy losses, raising concerns over the livelihoods of small business owners in the area.
The blaze, which erupted at around 2:30 PM on 24th January 2026 in Township Cell, Western Ward, destroyed nine kiosks and all the goods inside, according to police.
The affected traders include Olang Brian, Opio Aron, Akello Betty, Akello Kunta Beatrice, Awor Elizabeth, Aber Gloria, Ayugi Josephine, Umar Bashir, and Oula Dan.
Authorities are yet to estimate the total value of the losses.
Preliminary inquiries suggest the fire may have started from an illegal electricity connection in a metallic kiosk belonging to Olang Brian, a mobile money agent.
However, police stress that the exact cause is still under investigation.
A case of Fire Outbreak / Suspected Arson has been registered at Kamdini Town Council Police Station under GEF 001/2026, and detectives, together with uniformed personnel, have revisited the scene to document evidence.
Statements have been taken from victims and witnesses.
Residents and business owners in the area expressed concern over the impact on local trade, noting that the destroyed kiosks were central to their daily income.
SP PJ Okema, Public Relations Officer for North Kyoga Region, said police are investigating the incident and any possible criminal liability, pledging updates as the probe continues.
“Our priority is to determine the cause and ensure that justice is served while supporting affected traders,” Okema said.
The incident highlights the vulnerability of small businesses in Kamdini Town Council to fire hazards, particularly where illegal or unsafe electrical connections are in use.
Photo Credit: New Vision
