The Uganda Police Force has issued strict guidelines regulating fireworks displays during New Year celebrations in a bid to ensure public safety, security, and compliance with the law.
The guidelines were announced by Police Spokesperson Rusoke Kituuma during a security press briefing held at Police Headquarters in Naguru on Monday, December 29th, 2025.
According to Police, fireworks shall only be discharged by a licensed explosives blaster representing an approved applicant. Kituuma clarified that all fireworks display must be formally approved and handled exclusively by licensed personnel.
During the briefing, Police directed that any planned fireworks display must be publicly advertised in advance through both electronic and print media, particularly local FM radio stations and newspapers, to ensure public awareness.
Kituuma noted that the duration of fireworks displays will be strictly limited.
“The duration of any fireworks display shall not exceed five (05) minutes from the time of the first blast,” he said.
He also stated that Counter Terrorism (CT) Police officers will escort fireworks materials and directly supervise all displays, working jointly with respective District Police Commanders (DPCs) to guarantee proper security and public safety.
In addition, CT Police officers and DPCs will carry out prior inspections of all proposed venues to assess their suitability for fireworks displays.
Kituuma emphasized that Police will enforce compliance without hesitation.
“Area DPCs reserve the authority to stop any fireworks display that fails to comply with these guidelines,” he stressed.
Police further clarified that any unused fireworks materials must only be handled by a person holding a valid explosives blaster’s license.
Kituuma reminded the public that on 15th December 2025, Police had already issued guidelines governing entertainment events and shows, as well as safety measures for prayer gatherings. With the New Year approaching, overnight prayers are expected to attract large congregations.
Police therefore urged all organizers to strictly follow the issued guidelines and work closely with Police and other relevant authorities to ensure the safety and security of all participants.
Kituuma warned that failure to comply with the fireworks guidelines may result in immediate termination of a display either before or during the event and may attract other appropriate actions.
Members of the public were advised not to burn tires during New Year celebrations, noting that such acts destroy infrastructure, especially roads.
