Devastating fire engulfs Mbare Musika market in Harare
HARARE – A massive fire swept through Mbare Musika, Zimbabwe’s largest informal market, in Harare’s overcrowded high-density area, leaving widespread destruction and displacement.
· Nehanda RadioThe blaze, which started around 9pm on Tuesday, ravaged shacks, market stalls, and dwellings, fueled by combustible materials.
Emergency services, including the fire brigade and Harare City Council personnel, responded to the scene. However, their efforts were hindered by water shortages, crowds blocking movement, and difficulties navigating the densely populated area.
Harare City Council spokesperson Stanley Gama acknowledged the challenges. He assured that investigations into the fire’s cause would follow once the blaze was extinguished and people and goods were rescued.
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“This is a critical situation and as you can see the fire brigade is doing all it can to douse the fire. They were here at the earliest time possible and have been battling the blaze for hours,” Gama stated.
“However, the fire tenders have no capacity to carry adequate water to overcome this blaze immediately. They have to keep on going back and forth to fetch water, so it will take time to put the situation under control.
“There is also the challenge of crowds and shanty structures here which make it difficult to manoeuvre. Police need to help to control crowds and people’s movements to allow firefighters to do their work unimpeded.
“Investigations into the fire’s cause will follow after the blaze has been extinguished, and people and goods rescued. We are doing all we can to quickly ensure this emergency is under control and people are helped.”