KMC Reports Two Market Fires in a Single Day, Suspected Electrical Faults to Blame

Mayor Bensouda on Site © KMC

By Fatoumata Jaiteh

An alarming trend has emerged, sending shockwaves through traders who are grappling with the devastating consequences of frequent market fires. These fires not only threaten lives but also jeopardise the safety of citizens.

The Kanifing Municipal Council (KMC) reported two market fire incidents on their Facebook page on Sunday, March 16, 2025. Both fires occurred on the same day. The first broke out around midnight in a private dwelling near the back entrance of the Latrikunda Sabiji Main Market. According to KMC, the dwelling was occupied by tenants who used the space as a "Sandika" to sell various food commodities. The second fire erupted in a private shop in the Jaiteh Kunda area of the Serrekunda Market.

Image of the alleged fridge which caused the fire © KMC

Preliminary findings suggest that both fires were caused by electrical sparks. The Latrikunda fire resulted from a spark in a wire connected to a cosmetic shop that contained flammable materials. Meanwhile, the Serrekunda fire was triggered by a spark from a freezer inside the shop.

Earlier, on January 30, 2025, the Brikama Area Council reported a fire incident that devastated the market in Sandika, leaving businesses in ruins. That fire was also linked to power fluctuations caused by NAWEC’s inconsistent electricity supply.

Markets in urban areas, particularly in cities and towns, are among the most overcrowded places and serve as the backbone of the informal economy. These markets are highly vulnerable to fires, with devastating economic consequences. Damages often run into millions, and in The Gambia—a small economy—such incidents wipe out savings, destroy goods, displace vendors, and deprive families of their primary source of income. As more markets continue to burn, the urgency of addressing this crisis grows.

Burnt items at the Market © KMC

Following the recent fire in Latrikunda, KMC Mayor Talib Ahmed Bensouda met with market authorities and stressed the need for a thorough inspection of all electrical connections in the market. He expressed concern that some stall owners might be using illegal electrical connections. The mayor emphasised that no one should obtain an electrical connection directly from a utility pole and urged market vendors to remain vigilant. He encouraged them to report any suspicious activities to the authorities, as illegal connections pose significant risks to businesses and lives. He concluded, "We have all witnessed the aftermath of today's incident. Reporting such crimes helps save lives and protect property."

National Assembly Member (NAM) for the Latrikunda Sabiji constituency, Yahya Menteng Sanyang, urged individuals who cook with open flames in market areas to stop such practices. He also raised concerns about illegal electrical connections and the use of substandard wiring by some stall owners. While strongly advising against illegal electrical installations, he emphasised that if electrical work is done, it must use high-quality wiring to minimise risks to lives and property.

One speaker also recommended placing electrical wires inside protective pipes to prevent damage. "Using bare wires for electrical connections can cause severe damage if a spark occurs," he noted.