By Our Reporter
The Joint Security Agencies are well prepared and equipped to secure the popular Nyegenyege Festival, that is scheduled to take place from the 15th – 18th September in Njeru/Jinja after 3 years. It is the largest policing event in the area, that is sponsored by Uganda Breweries, the Organizers and Proprietors of the venue. And it is expected to attract between 15.000- 20.000 revelers, fans and goers who will enjoy the live music shows, parties and celebrations.
We call upon all intending participants to enjoy the festivity in a safe, responsible and respectful manner, for themselves, other revelers and the people living in the local area.
Although the event is to take place amidst an existing threat environment, there are no specific threats directed at the event, at this stage. We are however, prepared to counter all forms of threats and to tackle any other vulnerabilities or eventualities targeting revelers.
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A significant manpower and logistical resources have been directed to the festivity. At the same time, we have retained sufficient abilities to maintain our frontline policing services in the two regions of Kiira and Sezibwa. All the land, water and aerial assets are sufficient to keep both residents, visitors at the venue and the immediate surrounding.
We have also reviewed the safety management plan of the organisers and the proprietors, their response plans, security and staffing levels, traffic controls, access controls, emergency evacuation plans and the deployment of specialized equipment.
SAFETY AND SECURITY TIPS AT THE VENUE
The Joint Security Teams will have a robust presence on site and will firmly deal with any crime, during possession or any anti-social behaviors. All criminal minded persons are warned not to go to the venue, because we are ready to stop them.
We have deployed within the venue spaces personnel who will be the look-out for disruptive and potentially predatory behaviors. They will coordinate with the CCTV operating centre.
- The behavior we shall be on the look-out for includes loitering, leering, trailing lone or intoxicated individuals, harassment of females especially young female adults, committing acts sexual violence, physical assaults, robberies and thefts.
- For the vast majority of people who want to have a good time, we are reminding them to keep an eye on what and how much your drink.
- Do not leave your drinks and property including bags and mobile phones unattended. We would also urge people not to bring unnecessary bags to the event.
- Keep valuables close at all times. Keep wallets and purses out of sight.
- We anticipate predatory behavior from sex predators, targeting young adults and women. Be on the look-out for potential sex predators spotting and stalking you. We shall be on the look-out.
- Do not enter into a camping site or tent without your will. Avoid any compromising situations like lone movements especially at night. Entering a tent can easily lead to acts of victimization including sexual violence.
- Notify medics and police in case a health concern arises.
- While at the venue, revelers should make sure they are aware of the surroundings. They should report any suspicious object or persons to the police or the organizers
- Revelers should pay attention to where they can exit from at the venue and have a plan in case thy need to leave quickly.
- The open waters of the R. Nile are discouraged for swimming.
- Ensure your camp or tent is not left unsupervised.
- When buying a ticket, ensure it is bought directly from the event organisers.
When you are finished using your phone -put it away. Thieves can grab a phone from a table in seconds.
Victims of sexual abuse or violence should take courage and immediately report to the police for investigations and post-rape treatment.
In an ideal world, we would not be sharing these tips, but sadly, there are people who take advantage of other persons who look vulnerable at such events.
It is therefore, up to everyone to challenge such unacceptable behavior. Everyone should be able to enjoy the festival safely. We are focused on spotting disruptive bevaviours, detecting and preventing many other kinds of crime, and remain dedicated to doing all within our means to keep the venue safe and secure for everyone.
