
As Uganda prepares to mark its 63rd Independence Day on Thursday at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, the traffic police have unveiled detailed guidelines aimed at ensuring a smooth, safe and orderly flow of vehicles and people around the event area.
According to a statement from the Traffic and Road Safety Directorate, key access roads to Kololo will be cut off for the public. The primary closure point will be at Hotel Africana, where motorists will be redirected to proceed via Jinja Road and the Lugogo Bypass. Only vehicles bearing VIP identification stickers will be allowed to pass through Upper and Lower Elgon Terrace to designated VIP parking zones.
Spokesperson SP Michael Kananura explained that the measures are necessary due to the high number of invited guests, including diplomats, government officials and other dignitaries. “To ensure smooth traffic flow and enhanced security during the celebrations, the following cut-offs, diversions, and parking arrangements are in place,” he said.
Several connecting roads including Acher Road junction, Prince Charles Drive and Mabua Road will be temporarily diverted to prevent direct access to Upper Kololo Road from Acacia Avenue. Motorists travelling along John Babiiha Avenue will, however, continue to drive under normal conditions.
Public parking zones will be established at City High School, Hotel Africana and the Uganda Management Institute, while parking along roadside areas will be strictly banned. Vehicles unlawfully parked or abandoned may be towed at the owner’s cost. SP Kananura warned: “Vehicles found parked or abandoned on the roadside will be towed at the owner’s cost to the nearest police station.”
Motorcycles (boda-bodas) will not be allowed beyond the cut-off points. To avoid delays and confusion, motorists are further urged to clearly display stickers issued by authorities, and to cooperate with traffic and security personnel. “Ensure your vehicle sticker is clearly displayed for easy identification by the security agencies. Exercise patience and discipline to ensure a successful and peaceful event,” SP Kananura added.
The traffic diversions and parking arrangements will take effect from 6:00 a.m. on the day of the event and will remain in force until the conclusion of the celebrations.