LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-A fire broke out at Lilongwe Main Market on the evening of Monday, September 29, 2025.
The blaze reportedly started in the section of the market where chickens are sold.
Witnesses at the scene said the fire spread quickly, causing panic among traders and shoppers.
Residents nearby said they heard the sirens of fire engines rushing to the market as emergency services responded.
However, before the fire could cause extensive damage, community members and traders at the market joined hands to put it out.
Eyewitnesses said people rushed with buckets of water and other materials to help contain the flames before the fire brigade fully intervened.
By the time firefighters arrived, much of the blaze had already been subdued by the efforts of ordinary citizens.
Although the fire has since been put out, concerns remain about the vulnerability of the market to such incidents, given its congested layout and lack of adequate fire safety infrastructure.
Authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the cause of the fire or the extent of damage.
For now, relief has spread among traders and residents that no major losses or casualties have been reported.
The incident has, however, reignited debate over the need for stronger fire preparedness measures in Malawi’s markets to prevent future disasters.
