Police Warn Against Road, Waterway Use During National Cleaning Day Enforcement

The Uganda Police Force (UPF) has warned motorists and vessel operators to stay off roads and waterways during the nationwide enforcement of the Mandatory National Cleaning Day, which begins this Saturday.

In a statement issued on Friday, Police said all users of motor vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles and water vessels must comply with movement restrictions that will be in force from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. across the country.

Police Spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke said the three-hour restriction is intended to facilitate the nationwide cleaning exercise and ensure full public participation.

“Members of the public are encouraged to remain in their areas, take part in the cleaning exercise, and resume normal activities at 10:00 a.m. We urge all citizens, motorists, traders, institutions and community leaders to fully comply with the directives and actively participate in the cleaning exercise,” Kituuma said.

Police said only essential and emergency services will be exempt from the restrictions. These include medical emergencies, with patients expected to carry relevant medical documents, while health workers must present valid identification. Security personnel on duty, official security vehicles and authorised cross-border travellers will also be allowed to move during the restricted period.

The directive follows Thursday’s announcement by Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, who declared the launch of a Mandatory National Cleaning Day to be observed on the last Saturday of every month, beginning July 25, 2026.

Under the new arrangement, all Ugandans are expected to participate in a three-hour community cleaning exercise. During that period, vehicular movement will be suspended, and businesses will remain closed nationwide.

Nabbanja directed all local governments to mobilise communities and identify priority areas requiring clean-up. She added that detailed implementation guidelines will be issued following the official launch of the initiative at Kisenyi, Mengo, where Vice President Jessica Alupo is expected to officiate.

The Prime Minister also said President Yoweri Museveni had directed security agencies to enforce compliance with the exercise, like the enforcement of Covid-19 public health measures.

The National Cleaning Day will be observed under the theme: “A Clean Uganda is Everybody’s Responsibility.”