Motorists Along Jinja Road Warned of Traffic Disruptions During Kabaka Mutebi’s 33rd Coronation

The Uganda Police Force has told drivers and pedestrians to expect traffic delays and security checks along Jinja Road Highway during the Kabaka of Buganda’s 33rd coronation anniversary in Kira Municipality, Wakiso District.

Watoto Church Bweyogerere on Jinja Road will host the Kabaka’s 33rd Coronation Anniversary thanksgiving service on July 31. It will be the first evangelical church to host the Kingdom’s annual royal thanksgiving, which is expected to draw hundreds of Buganda subjects, officials and dignitaries.

Speaking to journalists at Bulange-Mengo, Kampala Metropolitan Deputy Police Spokesperson, Luke Owoyesigyire, said enhanced security deployments have been planned for Friday. He noted the measures are in response to the venue’s proximity to the busy Jinja Road and expected congestion, which is higher than in previous similar events.

He also said that a combined security team including the Uganda People’s Defence Forces-UPDF, intelligence groups, counterterrorism units, Field Force Unit, and Fire and Rescue Service will work together to improve security and keep the event safe.

“While we currently enjoy peace, the threat of terrorism remains. Individuals with malicious intent may target such a major event to cause havoc. As such, we have put in place comprehensive counterterrorism measures, and all attendees will be subjected to thorough screening at every entrance,” Owoyesigyire said.

Security has appealed to attendees to refrain from carrying dangerous weapons. Owoyesigyire said people should cooperate with security measures such as body searches, noting that while they may be uncomfortable, they are necessary for safety.

He further noted that all access roads to the church will be under heavy security deployment, with possible traffic diversions. He said traffic police were still evaluating the situation but cautioned that the arrangements may cause disruptions to other road users, hence the need for early preparations.

The coronation thanksgiving prayers are anticipated to draw a crowd of over 5,000 people. Police said access could be restricted should the situation pose a risk of a stampede. Oweek Joseph Kawuki, the Kingdom’s Minister of Local Government and Chairperson of the Coronation Ceremony, urged the public to plan to arrive early to avoid traffic disruptions.

“Security agencies have assured us that they will protect our people from Spire Motors junction to the main venue and Sseeta. Our people will be safe both coming and going back. We urge the Kabaka’s subjects from various areas of Buganda to avoid congestion by coming in private cars. If they can come in groups using public means, it will be better,” Kawuki stated.

He said preparations for the coronation thanksgiving event at Watoto Church have been completed. The remaining preliminary events are also underway, with only two functions left: receiving the Kabaka’s gifts at the palace and the official opening of the 30-day exhibition on Buganda’s backcloth.

Since 2024, the Buganda Kingdom has adopted rotational faith-based commemorations in place of traditional public celebrations. Under the new format, different religious denominations take turns to lead prayers in honor of the Kabaka.