Uganda has taken another decisive step in its build-up to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, with construction work officially kicking off on two important training venues in the Albertine region.
The National Council of Sports (NCS) has formally handed over the Hoima Boma Grounds and King George Stadium in Masindi to the UPDF Engineering Brigade, marking the start of works on facilities that will support matches at Hoima City Stadium during the continental tournament.
The ceremony was presided over by State Minister for Sports, Hon. Peter Ogwang, as Government continues to accelerate infrastructure development ahead of the expanded AFCON finals.
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These two sites form part of a broader network of training venues tied to the Hoima cluster. Some facilities within this group are already nearing completion, including the Hoima City Stadium annex, while Sir Tito Winyi Ground is expected to be delivered in the near future.
NCS Board Chairperson Ambrose Tashobya emphasized that the project rollout followed due process, noting that land ownership had been officially transferred to the council in accordance with the National Sports Act.
Meanwhile, NCS General Secretary Dr Bernard Patrick Ogwel assured stakeholders that financing is fully secured, revealing that Government has released all the required funds. He added that contractors are working under a tight timeline, with completion targeted within six months.
Uganda is co-hosting the 2027 tournament alongside Kenya and Tanzania, under the banner of Africa Cup of Nations 2027, organized by Confederation of African Football. The three nations are under pressure to meet CAF’s infrastructure standards as preparations intensify.
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CAF is scheduled to conduct key inspection visits later this year, with assessment missions planned for August and December.
These evaluations will not only focus on stadiums and training grounds but also extend to critical support infrastructure such as accommodation, healthcare facilities, transport networks, and Kabalega International Airport.
The Hoima and Masindi handover event drew a wide range of stakeholders, including Masindi Municipality MP Hon. Rogers Byamukama, local government leaders, members of the AFCON 2027 Local Organising Committee, and community representatives.
Attention now shifts to northern Uganda, where similar handovers are set to take place in Gulu and Lira. Planned sites include university grounds and Pece Stadium, which will serve teams preparing for matches at the under-construction Akii-Bua Olympic Stadium.
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With timelines tightening and CAF inspections looming, Uganda’s infrastructure drive is entering a critical phase as the country pushes to meet expectations for one of Africa’s biggest sporting events.
