Kampala Metropolitan Police (KMP) has issued a comprehensive set of security and public safety guidelines ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which kicks off today, June 11, and is jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.
The police said the month-long tournament is expected to draw large crowds to bars, hotels, restaurants, sports lounges, nightclubs and other public viewing centres across Kampala and surrounding areas.
In a press statement, the Deputy Public Relations Officer for Kampala Metropolitan Police, ASP Luke Owoyesigyire, said security agencies have intensified deployments around major screening venues to ensure public safety throughout the tournament.
“Kampala Metropolitan Police has intensified security deployment and monitoring around major screening centres to ensure public safety, prevent crime and respond promptly to any incidents that may arise,” ASP Owoyesigyire said.
He emphasized that while police presence has been strengthened, security remains a shared responsibility and called upon members of the public to remain vigilant.
“Security remains a shared responsibility, and the public is encouraged to remain alert and report any suspicious persons, objects or activities to the nearest Police station or through the emergency contacts provided,” he said.
Police directed proprietors and managers of venues hosting public screenings to work closely with area police leadership and implement strict safety measures, including access control, crowd management and emergency preparedness.
According to the guidelines, venue operators must prevent overcrowding, ensure emergency exits remain accessible, maintain functional CCTV systems where available and adequately brief staff on emergency response procedures.
“Venue operators are further reminded to ensure orderliness within their premises, regulate alcohol consumption, prevent illegal activities, and maintain proper crowd management before, during and after matches,” Owoyesigyire stated.
The police also urged entertainment centres to implement Ebola prevention and control measures in line with Ministry of Health guidelines. These include providing handwashing facilities or sanitizers at entry points, promoting proper hygiene among patrons and staff, maintaining environmental cleanliness and remaining alert to any suspected symptoms.
Members of the public have been advised to take personal responsibility for their safety by safeguarding their belongings, avoiding overcrowded spaces, not leaving drinks unattended, familiarizing themselves with emergency exits and following instructions from security personnel and venue management.
For those unable to attend public viewing centres, police encouraged fans to watch matches from the safety of their homes, noting that UBC Television will provide live coverage of the tournament.
Kampala Metropolitan Police called on all stakeholders, including venue operators and football fans, to cooperate with security and health authorities to ensure a safe, secure and peaceful World Cup viewing experience.
For emergencies or reporting suspicious activity, the public can contact the National Police Hotline on 999, the Police WhatsApp Incident Reporting Line on 0779 999 999, the Traffic Emergency Toll-Free Line on 0800 199 099, or the Fire Emergency Toll-Free Line on 0800 121 222.
