The World Football governing body, FIFA, has finally approved Hamz Stadium Nakivubo War Memorial to host local and international matches following the official certification of its artificial turf by FIFA under the prestigious “FIFA Quality Programme for Football Turf” standard.
The announcement by businessman Hamis Kiggundu, popularly known as Ham, on Monday, October 7, marks the stadium’s readiness to host high-calibre football matches on its newly installed Duofilament Mono football turf.
The state-of-the-art turf, which FIFA approved on Friday, October 4, was installed by Nurteks Hali San.ve Tic. A.S., a globally renowned company specialising in artificial sports surfaces.
Following extensive testing and inspection, FIFA awarded Hamz Stadium turf a clean bill of health by FIFA, with the certification valid from October 4, 2024, to October 3, 2027.
“FIFA is pleased to confirm that the football turf system Duofilament Mono has been installed by Nurteks Hali San.ve Tic. A.S. at Hamz Stadium Nakivubo Memorial – Hamz Stadium Nakivubo War Memorial – Kampala (Uganda). The installation has been tested and certified to the “FIFA QUALITY PROGRAMME FOR FOOTBALL TURF – FIFA QUALITY” standard,” reads a certificate signed off by FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Monday.
The certified turf at Hamz Stadium Nakivubo Memorial is set to host a variety of football matches, creating opportunities for local talent to play on FIFA-approved grounds while attracting international teams to Kampala.
At least three Uganda Premier League clubs had already applied to use the stadium as their home ground in the 2024/25 UPL season, and the FIFA certification comes at the right time when the league is just four matchdays underway.
The certificate issued by Gianni Infantino, FIFA’s President, isn’t just an honour; it’s a symbol of trust and excellence. It reflects Uganda’s commitment to improving its football infrastructure and ensuring that the country is well-positioned on the global football map. The validity period from October 4, 2024, to October 3, 2027, ensures that for the next three years, the stadium will host matches on a pitch that meets FIFA’s rigorous standards.
What This Means for Uganda
This certification is a game-changer. It gives Uganda the credibility needed to attract international teams and host major football events, including CAF tournaments and possibly qualifiers for the Africa Cup of Nations and World Cup. This approval not only enhances Uganda’s sports reputation but also boosts tourism, the local economy, and grassroots football development.
The Hamz Nakivubo War Memorial Stadium has long been a cultural and sports icon in Uganda, and this certification by FIFA signals its transformation into a world-class venue. It also underscores Uganda’s dedication to growing its footballing potential, with a facility now capable of hosting matches that meet global expectations.
The Cutting-Edge Technology Behind the Pitch
The field’s transformation involved the installation of the Duofilament Mono system, a cutting-edge turf technology that guarantees excellent playing conditions in various weather situations. Players will experience improved ball control, lower injury risks, and overall enhanced gameplay, ensuring every match is played on a surface equal to those seen in Europe’s top leagues.
With FIFA’s certification led by Gianni Infantino, the world’s footballing authority has effectively endorsed Uganda’s growing football ambitions. Infantino’s support reflects FIFA’s recognition of the stadium’s ability to meet world-class standards and its potential as a venue for significant international events. His involvement in certifying the stadium sends a powerful message about Uganda’s place in the global football conversation.
The FIFA certification of Hamz Nakivubo War Memorial Stadium, personally signed by Gianni Infantino, is more than just an approval; it’s a pivotal moment for Uganda’s footballing future. As Kampala prepares to welcome international teams, the stadium stands as a beacon of progress for Ugandan sports. The global football community is watching, and with this certification, Uganda is poised to shine on the world stage.
From grassroots footballers dreaming of glory to fans eager to witness top-tier matches, Hamz Nakivubo Stadium’s FIFA certification paves the way for a bright future in Ugandan football.
