Kampala, Uganda: The Uganda Police Force has issued strict guidelines regulating fireworks displays during New Year celebrations, warning that only licensed operators will be allowed to conduct displays and that non-compliance will attract immediate enforcement action.
According to Police Spokesperson Rusoke Kituuma , fireworks shall only be discharged by a licensed explosives blaster acting on behalf of an approved applicant.
Kituuma, who was addressing the media during a security press briefing on Monday, December 29, 2025, at Police Headquarters, Naguru, stressed that all fireworks displays must receive formal approval and be handled exclusively by licensed personnel.
He further directed that any planned fireworks display must be publicly advertised in advance through electronic and print media—particularly local FM radio stations and newspapers—to ensure public awareness.
Kituuma said “the duration of any fireworks display shall not exceed five (05) minutes from the time of the first blast,” and will be tightly controlled. He added that Counter Terrorism (CT) Police officers will escort fireworks materials and directly supervise all displays, working jointly with District Police Commanders (DPCs) to guarantee security and public safety.
In addition, CT officers and DPCs will conduct prior inspections of proposed venues to assess their suitability before any approval is granted.
Kituuma warned that enforcement will be swift and uncompromising. “Area DPCs reserve the authority to stop any fireworks display that fails to comply with these guidelines,” he said. He also clarified that any unused fireworks materials must only be handled by a person holding a valid explosives blaster’s licence.
The Police spox further reminded the public that on December 15, 2025, Police had already issued guidelines governing entertainment events and shows, as well as safety measures for prayer gatherings. With New Year overnight prayers expected to attract large congregations, Police urged organisers to strictly adhere to all issued directives and coordinate closely with security agencies.
He cautioned that failure to comply may result in immediate termination of a fireworks display before or during the event, in addition to other appropriate actions.
Police also advised the public not to burn tyres during New Year celebrations, noting that such acts damage infrastructure, especially roads.
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