Kabaka Muwenda Mutebi on a guided tour of Katwe market
HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I The visit of Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, the Kabaka of Buganda, to the fire-stricken Katwe Market has underscored the critical role of cultural leadership in times of crisis, offering both moral support and renewed attention to the plight of affected traders.
The Kabaka recently toured the devastated sections of Katwe Market following a midnight inferno that destroyed property worth millions of shillings. Moving through the charred remains of stalls and kiosks, he inspected the extent of the damage and personally interacted with traders who lost their livelihoods in the blaze.
The fire, which broke out in the early hours of Monday, spread rapidly through the congested market structures, leaving hundreds of traders counting heavy losses. Preliminary reports suggest that the cause could be linked to electrical faults, with traders citing old power lines and unstable electricity supply, although investigations are still ongoing.
According to Racheal Kawala, spokesperson for Kampala Metropolitan Police, authorities have launched inquiries into the incident and urged the public to remain calm as efforts to determine the cause continue.
Beyond the immediate destruction, the Kabaka’s visit carried significant symbolic and practical importance. For many traders, his presence served as reassurance that their suffering had not gone unnoticed. Several victims expressed hope that the royal visit would draw government attention and accelerate support for recovery and rebuilding efforts.
Katwe Market, one of Kampala’s oldest and busiest trading hubs, supports hundreds of small-scale entrepreneurs. Its destruction represents not just individual losses, but a wider economic setback for the community. By visiting the site, the Kabaka highlighted the importance of safeguarding such economic centres and the livelihoods they sustain.
The visit also brought renewed focus to persistent concerns over market safety. Local leaders pointed to poor infrastructure, including narrow access roads that hinder firefighting efforts, as well as inadequate safety measures in crowded trading spaces. The incident has reignited calls for improved urban planning and stronger enforcement of safety regulations.
Importantly, the Kabaka’s gesture reinforced the unifying role of cultural institutions in Uganda. In times of hardship, such visits help to mobilise public empathy, encourage solidarity, and remind leaders at all levels of their responsibility to protect vulnerable communities.
After leaving Katwe, the Kabaka proceeded to St Paul Cathedral Namirembe, where he attended a special service, further reflecting a message of hope and resilience.
For the affected traders, the royal visit was more than ceremonial—it was a powerful sign of compassion, visibility, and a call to action for meaningful recovery support.
About the Author
