The government has allocated more than UGX 2.25 trillion to support Uganda’s preparations for the African Nations Championship (CHAN) and the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), State Minister for Sports Peter Ogwang has told Parliament.
Presenting an update to legislators, Ogwang said the government has so far committed UGX 1.35 trillion, with an additional UGX 905 billion set aside to finance infrastructure projects and other requirements linked to the two tournaments.
He said Uganda will host AFCON 2027 matches at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, and the Hoima City Stadium, which is currently under construction. Akii Bua Stadium in Lira has been designated as the country’s backup venue should the need arise.
According to the minister, the ongoing expansion of Namboole will increase the stadium’s seating capacity from 38,000 to 45,000. He added that all stadium construction works, together with the required training facilities, are expected to be completed by December 31, 2026, allowing enough time for inspection and certification before the tournament.
Beyond sports infrastructure, the government is also investing in the hospitality sector to ensure the country is ready to receive teams and visitors. Ogwang told Parliament that UGX 101 billion has been earmarked for a lending programme targeting hotels in the Hoima region. The loans will attract an interest rate of 5 percent, helping hotel owners upgrade their facilities to meet CAF standards.
The minister said the investments are aimed at ensuring Uganda fulfills its hosting obligations while leaving behind modern sports facilities and improved tourism infrastructure that will continue to benefit the country after the tournaments.
Uganda is preparing to co-host AFCON 2027 with Kenya and Tanzania, marking the first time the East African neighbours will jointly stage Africa’s biggest football competition. The country will also host matches during the African Nations Championship (CHAN), making the next two years critical for completing the planned infrastructure projects.
