The Ugandan government has given the green light for Hoima City to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after securing 20 acres of land for the construction of a new stadium set to host four teams. A delegation comprising officials from the education ministry, FUFA (Uganda’s football governing body), and the National Council of Sports (NCS) recently surveyed the land at Mparo in Hoima City, led by State Sports Minister Peter Ogwang, Education Ministry Permanent Secretary Ketty Lamaro, and FUFA President Moses Magogo.

State Minister Ogwang highlighted that negotiations with the tourism ministry are ongoing to ensure that the hotels in Hoima meet international standards to accommodate visitors during the tournament. The choice of Hoima was attributed to the proximity of the Kabalega International Airport, expected to be operational by next year, in addition to the three existing stadiums in Namboole, Nakivubo, and Hoima.

Magogo affirmed that FUFA is awaiting designs from the contractor to commence construction work on the Hoima stadium, a key component of Uganda’s joint bid with Kenya and Tanzania to host the AFCON games. He expressed gratitude for the land donations, including 10 acres from Hon. Pius Wakabi’s family and an additional 10 acres acquired by FUFA, which received approval from President Museveni and Education Minister Janet Museveni.

MP Pius Rujumba Wakabi expressed support for the project, emphasizing its national significance and urging the people of Hoima to embrace it. Minister Ogwang disclosed plans to inspect various facilities in Hoima and Masindi districts for use as training grounds and accommodations during the tournament. He also mentioned the government’s intention to secure more land for constructing additional sports facilities at Mparo.

Hoima City Mayor Bryan Kaboyo revealed discussions with German investors to develop modern facilities in the area. He highlighted a recent meeting with German investors, led by their minister, expressing confidence in the city’s readiness with the forthcoming developments.

The much-anticipated Kabalega International Airport is poised to undergo a cargo plane landing test in December 2023, marking a significant milestone in Uganda’s oil and gas development. The airport boasts a 3.5km runway and cargo terminal warehouses, with 98% completion in civil works for the $309 million project, originally slated for a 2022 opening. Discussions on funding and project extensions for a control tower are currently underway.

Amos Muriisa, the public relations representative for SBC Uganda, affirmed the airport’s readiness for the first cargo plane landing by December 2023, highlighting cargo terminal constructions. He underscored the airport’s capacity to handle large aircraft, offering assurances on quality and high standards upheld throughout the project.