The Uganda Police Force and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) have warned of traffic disruptions and heightened security operations in Kampala ahead of President Yoweri Museveni’s swearing-in ceremony scheduled for Tuesday, May 12, at Kololo Independence Grounds.
Police Spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner of Police Kituuma Rusoke, said security agencies have finalized comprehensive security and traffic management plans to ensure the smooth conduct of the event.
According to Kituuma, tactical response teams, rapid intervention units, and static security personnel from various security agencies will be heavily deployed across Kampala and other parts of the country.
He noted that the security arrangements will result in traffic interruptions on several major roads, while access to Kololo Independence Grounds will be strictly restricted.
Police have urged the public to cooperate with security agencies and comply with all traffic and security guidelines issued ahead of the ceremony.
Kituuma explained that John Babiha Avenue, commonly known as Acacia Avenue, will be reserved for invited guests and visiting heads of state, who will access Kololo through Elgon Terrace as indicated on their invitation cards.
Several roads are expected to face temporary restrictions, including Ssezibwa Road, Yusuf Lule Road, and Acacia Avenue. Other affected routes include Entebbe Road from the airport, Munyonyo Spur, Wampeewo Avenue, Salama Road, and Buziga Road.
Police said the roads will experience intermittent closures to facilitate the movement of VIP convoys.
Around Kololo, access will be restricted at Wampeewo Roundabout, with motorists expected to divert through Jinja Road and park at designated areas including UMI and Phaneroo Grounds. Additional restrictions will also apply near Kati-Kati Restaurant, City Oil, and sections of Kira Road.
The swearing-in ceremony is expected to attract at least 35 delegations of heads of state and more than 30,000 guests, including local and international dignitaries, at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds.
Meanwhile, security agencies in the Busoga sub-region have intensified deployments ahead of the ceremony.
The Busoga East Regional Police Spokesperson, Michael Kasadha, said security agencies are closely monitoring individuals suspected of planning acts intended to disrupt the event.
Kasadha warned members of the public against participating in protests, riots, or any parallel activities that could interfere with the swearing-in ceremony.
