As Ugandans prepare to usher in New Year 2026, the Uganda Police Force (UPF) has unveiled a set of strengthened safety guidelines aimed at ensuring peaceful celebrations across the country, amid heightened travel, gatherings, and ongoing general election activity.
In an official advisory released on 29 December 2025, police said that the Christmas festive period remained largely calm and orderly, with only isolated criminal incidents reported. However, with New Year’s Eve approaching, authorities are urging the public and event organisers to strictly observe safety protocols to prevent harm and damage to property as celebrations peak nationwide.
Fireworks Permits and Safety Controls
One of the central elements of the Police advisory is the regulation of fireworks displays. Police said it has licensed about 2,900 venues, including hotels, clubs, bars, entertainment spots and places of worship, to hold authorised fireworks shows across the country to mark the entry into 1 January 2026.
Police further emphasised that only licensed blasters may handle explosives and that displays must not exceed five minutes in duration. Counter‑terrorism police and district commanders will oversee all pyrotechnic activities to safeguard public safety.
Organisers must also advertise authorised fireworks displays in print and electronic media, according to the Police guidelines, and any unauthorised use of fireworks may attract fines or prosecution under the Explosives Act 2024.
Behavioural Warnings to the Public
In his briefing, Police Spokesperson ACP Kituuma Rusoke cautioned Ugandans against several common but dangerous celebratory practices. Burning tyres on public roads, a traditional form of marking the New Year, was singled out for criticism because it damages taxpayer‑funded infrastructure and endangers motorists and pedestrians.
Rusoke also warned legal firearm holders against firing bullets into the air, noting that such actions can lead to fatal accidents, particularly when combined with alcohol consumption.
Crime Prevention and Event Protocol
Police reiterated earlier guidance issued in mid‑December urging citizens to avoid posting travel plans or extended absences on social media, as criminals frequently monitor such posts to target unoccupied homes.
Residents were encouraged to inform trusted neighbours of their movements, strengthen neighbourhood watch arrangements, and report suspicious persons or activity promptly.
With overnight prayers, concerts and other social events expected to draw large crowds on New Year’s Eve, organisers must secure written clearance from the Inspector General of Police and coordinate plans with district security committees. Officials also stressed the need for adequate safety measures at venues, including clear emergency exits, firefighting equipment, first‑aid facilities and appropriate crowd management plans.
Travel, Road Safety and Wider Precautions
Police warned that increased travel during the festive period often leads to a spike in road accidents and other dangers. Efforts to enforce traffic laws have intensified under operations such as “Arrive Alive”, which has already seen hundreds of traffic offenders apprehended for reckless driving, overloaded vehicles, driving without licences and other violations in the past week alone.
Authorities also reminded the public that illegal land evictions during the festive season — when courts are closed — would not be tolerated, with offenders set to face legal consequences.
Uganda on Alert During Election Period
Police underscored that this festive period is occurring against the backdrop of the 2026 general elections, which requires increased vigilance to deter exploitation of celebrations for criminal activity. Members of the public were urged to remain calm, exercise personal responsibility, and cooperate with security agencies throughout the holiday period.