Mount Meru fire raises industrial safety and workers’ pay concerns in Lira

22 October 2026, 8:27 am

By Frank Oyugi and Sheila Awuma

Lira City — Security and administrative leaders in Lira City have called for stronger industrial safety measures and better remuneration for factory workers following a major fire that gutted part of the Mount Meru Millers (U) Ltd complex.

The fire broke out on Tuesday afternoon in the industrial area of Lira City East Division, sending thick plumes of dark smoke across the city and causing panic near the adjacent Railways Seed Secondary School.

The North Kyoga Police fire brigade responded and managed to contain the flames at the refinery unit. However, the incident has raised concerns about industrial safety compliance and labour relations.

Officials express concern over recurring fire incidents

Speaking to the media about the incident, Lira Resident City Commissioner (RCC) Lawrence Emmy Egole expressed concern over the reported increase in fire outbreaks in Lira City.

Egole also urged factory owners to improve workers’ pay, raising concerns about the remuneration of employees in the industrial sector.

Additionally, Egole urged factory management to employ certified professionals for specialised tasks. Noting that Lira City hosts more than 50 major factories, he emphasised the need to employ qualified engineers to regularly inspect electrical fittings and connections and ensure proper machine maintenance to prevent future incidents.

“On electricals, have people there; on other aspects, have people there, so that they are constantly checking on the fittings and connections of our machines so that we avoid such outbreaks,” Egole said.

Police call for routine inspections

Echoing similar concerns, North Kyoga Police spokesperson SP Jimmy Patrick Okema acknowledged that although some incidents may be difficult to prevent entirely, factory owners must prioritise regular safety inspections and strictly adhere to safety guidelines.

“There are some incidents that are unavoidable, but others can be prevented if we do the right thing at the right time,” Okema said, stressing the importance of preventive maintenance and risk mitigation at industrial facilities across the region.

Investigations into the exact cause of the Mount Meru factory fire are ongoing as technical and security teams complete their on-site assessments.