Hope Amid the Ashes: Well-Wishers Rally to Support Kigungu Fire Victims
Entebbe, Uganda — October 30, 2025
A wave of compassion is sweeping through Entebbe as well-wishers unite to support hundreds of Kigungu residents whose homes and livelihoods were destroyed in a devastating fire at the Kigungu landing site last week. The inferno, which broke out in the densely populated fishing community, reduced property worth millions of shillings to ashes, leaving families homeless and desperate for help.
Among those leading relief efforts is Michael Kakembo, the Member of Parliament for Entebbe Municipality. Kakembo joined local leaders, community organizations, and Good Samaritans in extending a helping hand to the affected families. Over the weekend, he donated relief items, including mattresses, food supplies, and essential household items, to offer comfort and hope to those grappling with loss.
“This tragedy has touched all of us deeply,” said MP Kakembo during the relief handover. “Kigungu is home to hardworking people who contribute immensely to Entebbe’s economy through fishing and trade. It’s our collective duty to help them rebuild their lives.”
The fire, whose cause is still under investigation, tore through several makeshift structures and stalls at the bustling landing site. Fishermen, traders, and families who relied on the area for their livelihoods watched helplessly as flames consumed their possessions.
Today, many of the victims are living in temporary shelters and makeshift tents erected near the landing site. Others have sought refuge with relatives and friends as they await further assistance.
“We lost everything — our homes, our nets, and our small shops,” lamented Sarah Namusoke, a mother of three who has lived in Kigungu for over a decade. “The help we’ve received so far is a blessing, but we still need more support to start over.”
Local authorities have appealed to the Ministry of Disaster Preparedness and the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) to step in with emergency relief and long-term resettlement plans. Community leaders have also urged for improved safety measures at the landing site, where overcrowding and flammable structures make such disasters more likely.
Despite the devastation, scenes of solidarity and resilience have emerged. Churches, youth groups, and non-governmental organizations have mobilized donations, providing food, clothing, and medical supplies to affected families.
“What we are seeing here is the true spirit of Ubuntu — people coming together in times of hardship,” said Reverend John Lule of Kigungu Parish, who has been coordinating local relief efforts.
As the community begins the long road to recovery, residents are calling for government intervention not only in the form of aid but also through preventive measures — including improved housing, access to clean water, and better fire response infrastructure.
For now, amid the ruins and ashes, Kigungu’s residents are finding strength in each other and in the generosity of strangers determined to help them rise again.
“We may have lost our homes,” said one elderly resident, “but we have not lost hope.”
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