By Ben Musanje
Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja has announced that Hoima City will host the main activities for Uganda’s September National Cleaning Day, as the country steps up efforts to improve sanitation and maintain public spaces ahead of major international events, including the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The 3rd edition of nationwide cleaning exercise is scheduled for Saturday, September 26, 2026, with activities expected to take place across cities, districts, municipalities, town councils, sub-counties, parishes and villages.
Speaking during a media briefing on preparations for the exercise, Nabbanja urged Ugandans, institutions, schools, businesses and communities to prepare in advance and clean their surroundings.
“The cleaning activities will take place across the entire country,” Nabbanja said, calling for roads, markets, drainage channels and other public spaces to be cleaned and properly maintained.
Hoima City is among the Ugandan locations designated to host matches during the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which Uganda will co-host with Kenya and Tanzania. The city is therefore expected to attract increased attention and activity as preparations for the tournament continue.
The National Cleaning Day initiative was launched on July 25, 2026, by Vice President Jessica Alupo, representing President Yoweri Museveni, in Kampala.
The programme was approved by Cabinet under a Whole-of-Government and Whole-of-Society approach. It is intended to improve sanitation, prevent disease, protect the environment and encourage a sustained culture of civic responsibility.
Police issue security guidelines
Police also announced enhanced security measures for the cleaning exercise following an incident during an earlier exercise.
Police Deputy Spokesperson SSP Diana Nandawula said the officer implicated in the incident had been arrested, appeared in court and was remanded to Luzira Prison. The next hearing is scheduled for October 6, 2026, she said.
Nandawula said police commanders would strengthen supervision during the exercise, with additional commanders deployed, particularly in highly populated areas.
She also appealed to members of the public to cooperate with security personnel.
“If you’re stopped by security, please stop and answer the questions,” Nandawula said, adding that people who are exempted from restrictions should present the necessary documentation to avoid confrontations.
Nationwide mobilisation
The September exercise is part of a broader government campaign encouraging citizens to take responsibility for sanitation in their communities.
Organisers say the exercise will involve public spaces ranging from roads and markets to drainage channels and other areas requiring maintenance.
With the main event taking place in Hoima, government officials are expected to use the exercise to mobilise residents and institutions around the importance of maintaining clean and safe public spaces.
The government says the campaign is intended not only as a monthly cleaning exercise but also as a long-term effort to build a culture of environmental responsibility across Uganda. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
