Territorial commanders have been assigned the responsibility of overseeing New Year fireworks displays to ensure they adhere to permitted times and do not pose a risk to the public. Fred Enanga, the Police spokesperson, emphasized that commanders must monitor events closely, forming task teams to prevent disruptions caused by unauthorized fireworks.
Enanga announced on Sunday, December 31, that police commanders, in collaboration with contractors, will review and approve the locations of proposed fireworks discharge sites. They will provide supervision and guidance to fireworks operators, ensuring safety from setup to discharge and post-display assessments. Authorities have the discretion to suspend or terminate displays if deemed unsafe due to weather or other grounds.
In preparation for New Year celebrations, the police cleared 1907 venues, including hotels, churches, bars, clubs, and other entertainment venues, for fireworks displays. The major displays on New Year’s Eve will involve firecrackers, proximity, and special events fireworks.
Enanga specified that only contractors licensed under the Explosives Act, such as Sky Flames Uganda Limited, Quality Lighting Uganda Limited, Extremes Events Uganda Limited, Tomil Fireworks Uganda Limited, Goshen Africa Uganda Limited, Fesco Limited, Light Africa Uganda Limited, and Fire Works, are permitted to conduct standard fireworks displays.
To ensure safety, fireworks display contractors are required to conduct onsite safety assessments, provide 10 tagged and functioning fire extinguishers, and supply necessary tools and equipment for transporting, receiving, and safely storing fireworks. Additionally, the operators must have a qualified team to set up, fire the display, and clear the entire area of fireworks debris after the event.
