Matoto market blaze in Guinea destroys goods, causes hundreds of millions loss

On the night of Thursday 6 August 2026, a fire erupted at the large Matoto market in Conakry, Guinea, likely triggered by a short‑circuit when electricity returned. The flames quickly spread through containers and stalls selling fish, chicken, clothing and other merchandise, reducing many shops to ash.

No fatalities were reported, but traders estimate material damage in the hundreds of millions of Guinean francs. Vendor Manty Condé said five freezers alone cost 60 million GNF and she lost 30 cartons of fish, while other sellers such as Oumar Diallo described the shock of losing years of stock. Firefighters, aided by local youths, managed to contain the blaze. The victims are urging authorities to provide financial assistance and to improve the market’s layout and safety measures to prevent future incidents.