An overnight fire has gutted one of Uganda's largest markets, devastating traders who lost all of their merchandise in the blaze.

Local officials say the fire in Kampala's Parkyard market broke out in the early hours of Sunday morning, when the market was empty.

There were no reported injuries but the flames burned through thousands of stalls, destroying the goods of small traders who depend on the market to make their living.

Firefighters needed several hours to put out the blaze. Police say they are investigating the cause of the fire.

This is the second time in two years a major fire has struck the Parkyard market, which is part of the larger Owino market.