Uganda Police Force Issues Guidelines for Fireworks Display on 31st December 2024

The Uganda Police Force has released guidelines for the display of fireworks tomorrow, 31st December 2024. They have also issued a list of licensed blasters permitted to conduct fireworks displays, which includes the following companies: Tomil Fireworks Ltd, Quality Lighting (U) Ltd, Fireworks 7000 Ltd, Light Africa Ltd, Goshen Africa Ltd, Extremes Events Services Ltd, Sky Frames (U) Ltd, and FESCO Ltd.

According to ACP Kituuma Rusoke, the PRO for the Uganda Police Force, the Force received and approved 2,900 applications for fireworks displays across the country. These include requests from hotels, entertainment centers, and places of worship intending to celebrate the New Year.

Guidelines for Fireworks Display
The following guidelines must be strictly adhered to during fireworks displays:

1. Advertising: The fireworks display must be advertised in both electronic and print media, particularly on local FM radio stations and newspapers, before the event.
2. Conspicuous Ads: Advertisements in newspapers must appear on pages 1, 2, 3, or 4 and should be prominently displayed.
3. Calibre Limit: Fireworks materials must not exceed a calibre of 1.5mm.
4. Duration: Fireworks displays shall last no longer than five (5) minutes from the first blast.
5. Security Measures: Counter-Terrorism (CT) police personnel, along with District Police Commanders (DPCs), will escort fireworks materials and supervise the display to ensure public safety.
6. Licensed Handlers: Any unused fireworks materials must be handled by a licensed explosives blaster.
7. Venue Inspection: CT Police and area DPCs must inspect venues beforehand to confirm their suitability for fireworks displays.
8. Authority of DPCs: Area DPCs have the authority to halt any display that does not comply with these guidelines.
9. Non-Compliance: Failure to adhere to these guidelines will result in immediate termination of the display and potential additional actions.
10. Public Advisory: The public is advised to refrain from burning tyres and firing shots into the air during New Year celebrations.

Music Shows and Entertainment Events
Several entertainment and music events are planned for New Year’s celebrations. The earlier issued guidelines for such events remain in effect:

1. Only events with clearance from the Inspector General of Police are permitted.
2. Event organizers must collaborate with district security, regulatory authorities, and stakeholders to ensure safety.
3. Host venues must meet safety requirements, including emergency exits, assembly points, and firefighting equipment.
4. Overcrowding of venues is prohibited.
5. The use of flammable materials at public gatherings is discouraged.

Additional guidelines may be issued by area police commanders based on their assessments of venues and events.

Prayer Sessions
Many people will participate in overnight prayer sessions to usher in the New Year. These sessions are expected to attract large congregations and may extend into the night.

• Organizers must work with district security committees to ensure the safety of participants.

Terrorism Alert
As a frontline nation in combating global terrorism, Uganda remains vigilant against potential threats. Police personnel are on high alert to detect and prevent any criminal activities.

The public is encouraged to collaborate with security forces to maintain safe neighborhoods. In case of emergencies, the following contact lines are available 24/7:

• 999: Accessible nationwide for police emergencies.
• 0779 999 999: WhatsApp line for police-related incidents.
• 0800199099: Toll-free line for traffic-related incidents.
• 0800121222: Toll-free line for fire emergencies.
• Police Headquarters Operations Room:
  • 0800199699
  • 0776999136
  • 0707600773
  • 0714667743

Kituma who was addressing the press on Monday, urged everyone to celebrate responsibly and ensure a safe and joyous start to 2025.