Police has assured the public on security ahead of the much anticipated annual Kampala Capital City festival his weekend. The Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson SSP Emilian Kayima warned elements that might have intentions to rob valuables of the revelers that they will be dealt with.
He revealed this at a press conference organized by KCCA and Police to give the security outlook of the event that attracts millions of Kampalans.
“From our side of security, we want to assure you that we are ready to ensure that all people are safe and not encumbered,” SSP Kayima said to the press.
During last year’s festival, 299 pickpockets were apprehended with some of them charged, and Police vows that it will be vigilant come Sunday.
“We urge those coming to take precaution to know who they are with. Those bringing kids along, we advise that you stick your telephone contacts on their cloths to make it easy for us to trace you in case they go missing,” he said.
He also urged not to carry valuable property that won’t be necessary.
Meanwhile, effective Sunday midnight, traffic will be diverted and motorists will not be allowed to access Kampala road through all the different access points.
ASP Israel Wambesyo the Kampala Metropolitan Traffic Commander said that cars approaching town through Jinja road will be diverted towards Yusuf Lule Rd and Mukwano.
Those from Gaba will be channelled towards the old taxi park after Centenary Bank. Other roads that will be blocked include Nasser Rd, Nkrumah Rd, Speke Rd, Siad Barre Rd and Dewinton Rd. Motorists from Bombo road will use Kyagwe Rd or Old Kampala.
He said that being a Sunday, the traffic is expected to be low and therefore motorists must cooperate with officers.
Peter Kauju the KCCA publicist promised that this year’s festival, the sixth edition, will be bigger than the previous ones saying that activities will spread from Friday to Sunday. An estimated Ush 1.3 billion has been injected in the events.
Festivities will kick off Friday evening with a music concert featuring Tanzania star Diamond Platnumz and all top local acts. Proceeds will go towards refurbishment of government aided schools within Kampala.
A motor rally is slated for Saturday before the climax on Sunday where Kampalans will showcase the best of Uganda’s culture and food.