Kiir pledges support for traders hit by Custom Market fire

JUBA – South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir Mayardit on Tuesday pledged government support for traders affected by a massive fire that tore through Juba’s Custom Market, as authorities launched investigations into the cause of the blaze.

The fire broke out at around 6:00 p.m. on Monday in the Nyakuron/Custom area of the capital and destroyed an unspecified number of shops, leaving traders facing heavy losses at one of the city’s busiest commercial hubs.

Witnesses said the absence of a coordinated emergency response allowed the flames to spread rapidly across the congested market.

The incident also triggered public outrage after security forces arrested a journalist who was livestreaming the fire, raising concerns over press freedom and the authorities’ handling of the disaster.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Kiir said the fire had dealt a “painful blow” to families and business owners whose livelihoods were wiped out overnight, noting the wide economic impact of the destruction.

“On behalf of the Government and people of South Sudan, I extend my heartfelt sympathies to all traders, shop owners, and families affected by this disaster,” Kiir said. “We share in your grief and stand with you during this difficult time.”

He said the government would move quickly to support affected traders and prevent similar incidents in the future.

Kiir directed security and government agencies to open a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the fire, provide immediate support to victims and review fire safety protocols in Juba and other towns across the country.

“I assure the people of South Sudan and the residents of Juba that the Government will investigate this matter and implement the necessary precautions to prevent future tragedies,” he said.

He added that his administration is committed to backing rebuilding efforts and helping business owners recover, describing the business community as the “backbone of the economy” and pledging state assistance to help traders resume operations.

As investigations begin and traders sift through the ashes, questions persist over the country’s emergency response capacity and the arrest of the journalist at the scene — issues that are likely to remain at the centre of public debate in the coming days.

Kiir concluded his statement with prayers for strength and comfort for those who suffered losses in the fire.