Police Restrict Movement During National Cleaning Day Exercise

What the report says

Uganda Police Force has announced a nationwide, three-hour restriction on movement on August 29 to support National Cleaning Day activities. According to Nile Post, the directive applies from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and covers vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles and vessels. Police said the purpose is to give residents time to take part in community cleaning efforts intended to improve sanitation, public health and the general environment.

The notice was issued on Monday, August 24, and asks people to remain within their localities and clean homes, neighbourhoods, workplaces and public spaces. Police said normal movement will resume after 10:00 a.m. and urged the public to plan ahead and avoid unnecessary travel during the restricted period. Security officers are expected to enforce the order nationwide.

The force said some categories will be exempt, including patients and people travelling for scheduled medical treatment with documentation, emergency service vehicles, medical personnel on duty, and security personnel on duty. Cross-border traffic on designated major corridors will be allowed, while travellers heading abroad must show proof of travel. Foreign tourists and journalists on official duty are also listed among those exempted.

In urging compliance, police warned against confrontations with officers enforcing the directive and encouraged Ugandans to use the exercise to support cleaner, safer communities. The announcement reflects a recurring public-health and sanitation push in Uganda, where national cleaning exercises are used to mobilize community participation alongside enforcement measures.