HOIMA, Uganda — President Yoweri Museveni expressed his excitement over the rapid progress of the Hoima City Stadium, a facility that will host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament.
During an inspection visit to the stadium on Tuesday, Museveni commended the contractor, SUMMA, for the impressive work done so far.
“I am very impressed with the progress made so far,” Museveni said. “The contractor has done a great job, and I am confident that the stadium will be completed on time.”
Museveni emphasized the importance of investing in sports infrastructure, saying it will not only boost Uganda’s reputation as a sports nation but also provide opportunities for local athletes to develop their talents.
While Uganda has a rich sporting history, investment in sports facilities had long been hindered by economic challenges, Museveni noted. However, he assured Ugandans that the tide was turning.
Apart from Namboole and Nakivubo, the country had not done much in terms of stadium development, Museveni said. But with Uganda co-hosting the 2027 AFCON, there was an urgent need to strengthen infrastructure, not only for sports but also for tourism and hospitality.
Museveni pledged government support in stimulating the private sector, particularly in hotel expansion in Hoima City, to accommodate the influx of visitors expected during the tournament.
First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Janet Museveni, accompanied the President on the inspection visit. She thanked the contractor for providing employment opportunities to Ugandans.
“I am happy to see the tremendous progress made by SUMMA within this period of seven months since construction started in September 2024,” she said.
The Vice President, Jessica Alupo, highlighted the role of sports in enhancing Uganda’s international reputation. She stressed that investments in modern stadiums would provide local athletes with better training facilities and increase the country’s competitiveness on the global stage.
The Prime Minister, Robinah Nabbanja, affirmed Uganda’s readiness to co-host AFCON 2027, describing the Hoima Stadium project as a game-changer for the region.
The Hoima City Stadium is one of the facilities being constructed in preparation for the 2027 AFCON tournament. The stadium is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
During the inspection visit, the President also announced plans to upgrade other sports facilities in the region, including the Akii-Bua Stadium, and to transform Gulu Airport into an international facility.
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