Police warn against non-essential movement during National Cleaning Day

What the report says

The Observer reports that the Uganda Police Force has cautioned road users and water transport operators against non-essential movement during the first mandatory National Cleaning Day, set to be enforced nationwide this Saturday. According to the report, movement restrictions will apply from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. to motorists, motorcyclists, cyclists and users of water vessels.

Police spokesperson ACP Kituuma Rusoke said the three-hour halt is meant to support the clean-up exercise and encourage broad public participation. Police urged people to stay within their communities, join cleaning activities, and resume ordinary movement after 10:00 a.m. The directive also calls on traders, institutions, local leaders and the wider public to comply.

The Observer says exemptions will apply to essential and emergency cases. Those allowed to move include patients seeking urgent medical attention with supporting documents, health workers on duty with valid identification, security personnel, official security vehicles and authorised cross-border travellers.

The measure follows Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja’s launch of the National Cleaning Day programme, to be observed on the last Saturday of every month beginning July 25, 2026. Under the initiative, businesses are expected to remain closed during the three-hour clean-up window while local governments mobilise residents and identify priority areas. Nabbanja said implementation guidance would follow the official launch at Kisenyi in Mengo, where Vice President Jessica Alupo is expected to preside, and that President Yoweri Museveni directed security agencies to enforce compliance.