Hoima City, Uganda — President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has commissioned the Hoima City Stadium, officially bringing into use one of Uganda’s most ambitious sports facilities ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
The commissioning ceremony happened shortly after the stadium was formally handed over to the National Council of Sports by the contractor. The 20,000-capacity facility is among the key venues Uganda is counting on as it prepares to co-host AFCON 2027 together with Kenya and Tanzania.
Addressing leaders and residents at the event, President Museveni said the decision to invest in large sports infrastructure was deliberate and linked to national development goals. He noted that sports play an important role in shaping disciplined youth, promoting unity, and creating economic opportunities beyond entertainment.
The president also commended the Turkish construction firm SUMMA International for completing the project ahead of schedule, describing timely delivery and quality work as critical in public investments. He said such projects demonstrate what can be achieved when government planning is focused and resources are well managed.
Museveni urged authorities responsible for the stadium to ensure proper management and long-term maintenance, stressing that public facilities must be protected so they continue to benefit future generations in Bunyoro and the rest of the country.
Built at a cost of about 129 million US dollars, the stadium is designed as a multi-purpose complex. It includes a standard football pitch, a 2,000-seat indoor arena, a semi-Olympic swimming pool, training grounds, outdoor courts, office space, a gym, and parking for more than 1,000 vehicles. The facility can host football, volleyball, netball, basketball, swimming, and other sporting activities.
The commissioning was marked by sports exhibitions and a friendly football match between Kitara FC and KCCA FC, drawing thousands of spectators from Hoima City and neighbouring districts in the Bunyoro sub-region.
Officials from the National Council of Sports said the stadium will next undergo inspection and certification by CAF and FIFA before it can host international matches. They added that the complex will operate on a commercial model, with some sections available for hire to help meet maintenance costs.
Local leaders welcomed the opening of the stadium, saying it is expected to boost talent development, create business opportunities, and attract more visitors to Hoima City, which is already expanding due to oil and gas activities in the Albertine region.
Hoima City Stadium joins a list of major sports projects Uganda is undertaking ahead of AFCON 2027, including upgrades at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, and the development of additional training facilities. Government officials say these investments are intended to leave a lasting impact on sports development long after the tournament ends.
With the stadium now officially opened, focus turns to final approvals and operational readiness as Uganda continues its preparations to host Africa’s premier football competition.
