Mrs. Janet Museveni reassures the contractors working on Namboole stadium that the remaining funds will be provided to ensure completion. Namboole stands as the sole national stadium in Uganda meeting international standards, while Nakivubo undergoes redevelopment, nearing completion with an artificial turf.
Brig Gen Cyrus Bekunda, leading the UPDF Engineering Brigade overseeing the project, explains to the First Lady that delays stem from insufficient funds. Despite progress, certain utilities like floodlights, public address systems, and scoreboards remain unfinished, key criteria for Confederation of African Football (CAF) approval for hosting international matches.
State Minister for Sports, Peter Ogwang, confirms CAF officials’ visit on March 25 to assess the stadium’s readiness. Mrs. Museveni emphasizes CAF’s scrutiny, stating they’ll ensure completion before approval. Contractors estimate needing Shs17.76 billion to finish essential tasks, including floodlights, PA systems, and athletics tracks.
Mrs. Museveni pledges to secure the required funds, acknowledging the Ministry’s efforts in the supplementary budget. The stadium boasts essential features like playing and training pitches, seating, and dressing rooms, but full completion remains pending.
The government allocated Shs97.9 billion for Namboole’s renovation, initially targeting completion in November. The urgency increased after Uganda secured joint hosting rights for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. With St. Mary’s Stadium-Kitende disqualified for insufficient standards, Uganda requires at least three stadiums for the AFCON, aligning with the Pamoja bid.
Hosting international matches away from home underscores the necessity of completing Namboole to meet CAF and FIFA standards, ensuring Uganda’s preparedness for major tournaments.
