The New Year celebrations in parts of Greater Kampala South were muted despite a few entertainment places opening.
In Nateete, Rubaga South, people went about their daily businesses after 7 pm, in disregard of the curfew measures that the government instituted as part of the fight against Covid 19.
By 10 pm, some shops, especially selling groceries and liquor were still operating. Some drinking joints including pubs and bars were closed, save for a few hotels that have drinking areas.
As it approached midnight security personnel were seen moving around and warning people that new year celebrations overnight were banned.
However, it was different at Kyengera town where there was beehive activity with vehicles of revellers parked on the sides of the Masaka Highway, causing traffic congestion from Kyengera to Busega.
It was different at Westward in Nansana Municipality when by 10 pm, the town was largely deserted. The police and army were seen patrolling the area Nansana with whistles and megaphones informing people that they are supposed to be at home. Only bigger hotels with enclosed recreation facilities had a few people inside.
Further away from the City centre along Mityana road, it was largely quiet, save for Bira Trading Centre 14 km out of Kampala central. Loud music was accompanied by noisy revellers some of whom were on the floor dancing to the music.
Perhaps aware of the curfew and other Covid 19 measures that they were violating, the revellers that no one was going to disrupt the events.
“Not even the police, because they are informed and they gave us permission,” he said, adding that this would go on up to midnight.
“After midnight everyone will have to leave this place and go home.”
After ushering in the New Year, the revellers were asked to leave, which they adhered to.