Kampala — The Uganda Police Force has approved 2,385 fireworks displays across the country to usher in the New Year 2026, following security guidelines issued on December 29, 2025.
Addressing the media, Police Spokesperson Rusoke Kituuma said all approved fireworks shows must strictly last no more than five minutes, warning that any display that goes beyond the allowed time will be stopped immediately.
Only licensed companies are allowed
Police said only 10 licensed fireworks companies have been authorised to carry out the displays.
Among them, Tomil Fireworks Ltd received the highest number of approvals, with 752 sites cleared nationwide.
Tight security measures are in place
To ensure public safety, Counter-Terrorism officers will escort fireworks materials from storage to display sites.
Displays will be supervised by District Police Commanders (DPCs) and other security personnel.
Police have banned the burning of tyres on roads, a practice common during New Year celebrations.
Any security officer who fires a gun into the air as a form of celebration will be arrested immediately, police warned.
Approved display locations
Some of the major venues cleared for fireworks include: Sheraton Kampala Hotel, Mengo Lubiri, Freedom City and Speke Resort Munyonyo.
Police urged the public to celebrate responsibly and cooperate with security teams to ensure a safe and peaceful transition into 2026.