Major fire at the Magaba complex in Mbare, Zimbabwe

Major fire at the Magaba complex in Mbare, Zimbabwe

– the fire raged for over five hours. The Magaba complex (also known as Magaba Home Industry) is a bustling market and hub for entrepreneurship in Mbare, one of the oldest and most densely populated suburbs of Harare, Zimbabwe. In narrow alleyways and makeshift structures, thousands of small traders, artisans, mechanics, and vendors offer goods such as fresh produce, secondhand goods, electronics, and handicrafts. On February 13, 2026, shortly after midnight, a major fire broke out, destroying large parts of the complex, as confirmed by the Harare City Council. Three fire engines were deployed, supported by water tankers from the Emergency Help Group. This is the second such fire in nine months. Mbare has long been Zimbabwe's most important informal trading center and, despite its impressive infrastructure, fosters low-cost startups and cooperative ventures. Past problems include workplace hazards such as fires, explosions, lacerations, and inadequate infrastructure. This was highlighted in studies and a 2025 court order requiring Harare to rehabilitate the nearby housing complex. The Mbare economy also includes the large, nearby Mbare Musika produce market. "Our fire department was immediately on the scene after the emergency call and is currently working to bring the fire under control," said a statement from the Harare City Council. The cause of the fire is still unknown. https://nehandaradio.com/2026/02/13/magaba-complex-in-mbare-reduced-to-ashes-after-a-massive-inferno/ reduced to rubble. https://iharare.com/mbare-inferno-fire-destroys-magaba-complex-again-nine-months-after-last-blaze/ https://www.zimbabwesituation.com/news/mbare-magaba-zimbabwes-thriving-entrepreneurial-hub/