Kiir Orders Inquiry into Nyakuron Fire

(JUBA) – The President of South Sudan has expressed sorrow following a large fire that destroyed shops in the Nyakuron and Custom area of Juba on the evening of 1 December 2025.

The incident occurred at around 6:00 PM and caused extensive damage to property and goods, affecting many traders and families who rely on the busy commercial zone for their livelihoods.

The Nyakuron and Custom area is one of the most active trading centres in the capital, and the scale of the destruction has raised concerns about the wider economic impact. Many small business owners are believed to have lost all their stock in the fire, leaving them without income as the festive season approaches.

In a statement issued in Juba, President Salva Kiir Mayardit conveyed sympathy on behalf of the Government and the people of South Sudan. He said the nation shares the grief of all traders, shop owners and families affected by the disaster.

The President assured the public that the Government will investigate the cause of the fire and take steps to reduce the risk of similar incidents in the future. He directed security and government agencies to work together on three urgent tasks: conducting a full investigation into the incident, supporting affected traders, and reviewing fire safety measures across Juba and other towns.

The President noted that market traders remain central to the national economy and stressed that the Government will look into ways to help businesses rebuild and resume operations. He encouraged affected families to remain strong during what he described as a painful moment for the entire community.

President Kiir said the Government will continue to monitor the situation and ensure that measures are taken to prevent future emergencies in busy commercial zones.