The New Year’s Eve fireworks display in Uganda has received clearance for 1970 venues, as confirmed by the Operations (OPS) headed by Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP) John Nuwagira, deputized by Senior Commissioner of Police (SCP) Wilson Omoding. The number of approved venues may increase, pending additional applications. To ensure compliance with safety guidelines, Regional Police Commanders, District Police Commanders, Division Police Commanders, and Officers in Charge Stations are instructed to inspect the venues. Guidelines stipulate adequate space for fireworks, distance from flammable substances, and presence of safety measures like fire extinguishers.
Venues must be situated away from congested residential areas, equipped with a minimum of 10 fire extinguishers, and possess adequate entrance and exit routes. Police Spokesperson Fred Enanga, speaking on behalf of IGP and Nuwagira, emphasized the directive to cancel any display at venues failing to meet the specified guidelines. The guidelines aim to prevent a recurrence of the tragic stampede at Freedom City during last year’s fireworks display, resulting in 11 fatalities. Charges against events promoter Abby Musinguzi and events emcee Francis Jjuuko, implicated in the incident, were dismissed by the Makindye Chief Magistrates Court.
Eight authorized companies will distribute fireworks for this year’s event, including Fesco Ltd, Extremes Events Services Ltd, Sky Flames (U) Ltd, Light Africa Uganda Ltd, Tomil Fireworks Ltd, Goshen Africa Ltd, and Fireworks 7000. The distribution areas are divided among regions in Kampala: 72 venues in Kampala South, 78 venues in Kampala North, and 56 venues in Kampala East. Notably, the IGP has instructed police commanders to collaborate with other security agencies and units to ensure a peaceful New Year’s Day celebration.
