Namboole renovations enter critical phase ahead of 2027 AFCON co-hosting

Uganda’s preparations for next year’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) have shifted into high gear, with the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Engineering Brigade set to spearhead the second phase of renovations at Mandela National Stadium .

The government has earmarked Shs248 billion ($68,914,000) for the upgrade works, aimed at aligning the iconic Namboole facility with requirements set by the Confederation of African Football ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations.

State Minister for Sports Peter Ogwang confirmed that the entire project will be handled internally by the UPDF Engineering Brigade.

He revealed that government has allocated the money for phase two, which will see the stadium comprehensively remodeled in line with CAF recommendations.

Among the major upgrades planned is roofing of the stadium and expansion of seating capacity. Ogwang explained that while CAF requires a minimum of 45,000 seats for a final venue, Namboole currently holds about 38,000 after seating was installed, necessitating further expansion.

Beyond seating, the facelift will also deliver modernized and enlarged dressing rooms, upgraded lounges, enhanced media facilities, and the installation of sky boxes to meet international hosting standards.

The works, to be executed under the command of Lt. Col. Peter Sseku Kidemuka, are expected to be completed within ten months.

Renovation efforts will not be limited to Namboole. Government will also inject Shs19 billion ($5,279,632) into Kyambogo Stadium, where phase two works will include construction of tennis and basketball courts as well as a pavilion.

Additional stadiums in Hoima, Gulu, Lira, Sir Tito Winyi, and Pece will each receive Shs13.2 billion ($3,667,955), while Masindi Stadium will take Shs20.2 billion ($5,613,083), including installation of a modern athletics track.

All these projects are likewise being handled by the UPDF Engineering Brigade.

Uganda is set to co-host the Africa Cup of Nations alongside Tanzania and Kenya, with the tournament scheduled for June to July next year.

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