Traders at Kawe Market in Dar es Salaam woke up in shock on Monday after a fire destroyed the market overnight, wiping out goods and property. The cause of the fire remains unknown.
The blaze consumed merchandise that many traders relied on to repay loans, leaving them in financial distress. Several traders said they now face uncertainty and urgently need government support.
“We have lost everything. All the goods we were selling are gone. We cannot start again without assistance from the government,” said one trader, surveying the ashes of his destroyed stock.
Hamis Walid, another trader, said most of the businesses depended on loans to operate. “If the government can provide affordable support, we can gradually rebuild and repay our previous loans,” he explained.
Deus Mkude, a market trader, described the chaos: “I got the news while at home and rushed to the market. By the time I arrived, the fire had spread, and we could save nothing. The water supply was too low to control it effectively.”
Zawadi Kimaro, a poultry trader, pleaded to resume business despite restrictions. She also reported theft of chickens that were moved in an attempt to save them from the fire.
Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Albert Chalamila announced both short- and long-term measures to assist affected traders and rebuild the market.
He directed Kinondoni Municipal Council to release TZS 100 million as emergency relief, emphasizing transparent distribution to ensure all traders benefit.
Traders will be temporarily relocated to Tanganyika Packers to allow preparations for the market’s reconstruction. Chalamila stressed that the rebuilt Kawe Market must meet modern standards due to its strategic location.
The commissioner noted that the lack of insurance had worsened the losses and declared that traders will not be allowed to resume business in the new market without proper coverage.
Chalamila also warned traders against risky business practices, such as selling gas, charcoal, and wood alongside food stalls, which contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.
Chalamila condemned those who allegedly stole goods during the fire instead of helping save them. Local resident Yusuf Abdallah, known as Mzee Sasi, urged anyone who took property to return it immediately.
Kinondoni Fire and Rescue Acting Commander Jacob Chacha said a full report on the fire would be issued soon.