Government has expressed confidence that Uganda remains on track to meet its obligations as a co-host of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), with major infrastructure projects progressing across the country ahead of the continental showpiece.
Speaking on the status of preparations, State Minister for Sports Peter Ogwang said ongoing works at stadiums, training facilities, roads and supporting infrastructure demonstrate Uganda’s commitment to delivering a successful tournament alongside Kenya and Tanzania.
The tournament, which will be hosted under the Pamoja partnership involving the three East African nations, is expected to mark a historic moment for the region as it stages Africa’s premier football competition for the first time.
According to Ogwang, government has adopted a whole-of-government approach to ensure all sectors involved in the preparations work in coordination to meet Confederation of African Football (CAF) requirements. The preparations extend beyond stadium construction and include accommodation, transport networks, security, healthcare facilities, media operations and tourism infrastructure.
Among the key projects under implementation are the completion of training facilities at Makerere University and Kyambogo University, which government has directed should be ready by August 2026 ahead of future CAF inspections. The facilities are expected to serve teams that will be based in Kampala during the tournament.
Government is also banking on major investments in competition venues, including Mandela National Stadium, Hoima City Stadium and Akii-Bua Stadium in Lira, which form part of Uganda’s AFCON hosting infrastructure. Hoima City Stadium has already been completed, while construction works continue on other facilities earmarked for the tournament.
The assurances come amid concerns raised by legislators and football stakeholders over Uganda’s readiness following earlier CAF inspection reports that highlighted infrastructure gaps requiring urgent attention. However, government maintains that the identified issues are being addressed through ongoing construction and coordination efforts.
Sports officials argue that hosting AFCON 2027 presents opportunities that extend beyond football. The tournament is expected to accelerate investments in transport infrastructure, hospitality, tourism, urban development and job creation while showcasing Uganda to millions of viewers across the continent and beyond.
The preparations are also viewed as part of a broader strategy to strengthen Uganda’s sports infrastructure and create a lasting legacy for future generations of athletes.
With just over a year remaining before the tournament, attention is now focused on meeting critical construction deadlines and ensuring that Uganda’s facilities meet CAF standards in time for final inspections.
As East Africa prepares to welcome the continent’s biggest football tournament, government officials remain optimistic that the country’s investments will not only deliver a successful AFCON but also leave behind infrastructure that will benefit Ugandan sport and tourism for decades to come.
