Kampala, March 5, 2025 — A devastating fire tore through the Sunrise Hotel on Khamis Road in downtown Kampala earlier today, leaving several people injured and others unaccounted for, with fears of fatalities. The blaze, which engulfed the multi-story building, sent plumes of thick smoke into the sky, creating scenes of chaos and desperation as occupants scrambled to escape.
Eyewitnesses reported harrowing moments as flames rapidly consumed the building, forcing some individuals to leap from upper floors in a bid to survive. “The fire spread so quickly. People were screaming for help, and some had no choice but to jump,” said Abubaker Mulindwa, who witnessed the tragedy unfold. “Many were trapped inside, and it was heartbreaking to see.”
Emergency services, including firefighters, police, and medical teams, responded swiftly to the scene, battling the inferno and working to rescue those still trapped. Crowds gathered nearby, watching in shock as the building burned. Authorities have yet to determine the cause of the fire, but investigations are already underway.
A Growing Crisis: Fire Incidents on the Rise in Uganda
The Sunrise Hotel fire is the latest in a series of devastating blazes that have plagued Uganda in recent years, raising serious concerns about fire safety standards and emergency preparedness.
- In 2023, a tragic fire at a school dormitory in Mukono claimed the lives of at least 11 students, highlighting the vulnerability of public buildings.
- In late 2024, the Park Yard Market in downtown Kampala was reduced to ashes, destroying countless businesses and leaving traders with millions in losses.
- Numerous commercial buildings, including arcades and hotels, have also been ravaged by fires, often attributed to electrical faults, inadequate safety measures, and delayed emergency responses.
Despite repeated calls for stricter enforcement of fire safety regulations, many buildings across the country remain ill-equipped to handle such disasters. Authorities have urged property owners to install fire suppression systems, conduct regular safety drills, and adhere to building codes to prevent future tragedies.
Ongoing Rescue Efforts and Investigations
As emergency teams continue their operations at the Sunrise Hotel, the focus remains on rescuing survivors and assessing the full extent of the damage. Kampala Metropolitan Police officials have pledged to provide updates on casualties and the potential cause of the fire as the investigation progresses.
This incident underscores the urgent need for comprehensive fire safety reforms in Uganda. With lives and livelihoods at stake, the government, building owners, and the public must work together to address the systemic issues that contribute to these recurring disasters.
This is a developing story. Further updates will follow as more information becomes available.
