Hundreds left homeless as fire razes 51 huts in Kaabong District

Hundreds of residents have been left homeless after a fire burnt down 51 huts to ashes in Loterwa camp, Sidok Subcounty, Kaabong District. It is alleged that the fire was started by a 3-year-old child who was playing in the absence of its mother.

According to Longole Mike, the Acting PRO of Moroto/ASTU, the incident occurred on the 19th of March 2024 at around 6:00 PM.

Eyewitness reports indicate that Modo Rose Mary was preparing food outside her compound with her 3-year-old son. She then left to fetch water from the nearby borehole, leaving the child alone in the compound with food still on the fire.

Allegedly, the child picked up a bundle of dry grass, lit it, and started playing with it in the compound. Due to strong winds, the fire spread to nearby huts, burning down 50 other huts and destroying all properties.

The PRO says a team of investigators visited the scene and recorded relevant statements from the victims and local leaders. Security agencies are currently providing shelter for the victims as they plan to reconstruct their homes.

Longole cautioned parents against leaving children unattended at home.