AFCON 2027: Roof installation signals major progress at Akii-Bua Olympic stadium project

Construction works at the Akii Bua Olympic Stadium in Lira, Uganda have reached a significant milestone, with the project advancing into the crucial roofing stage as the main structural framework nears completion ahead of the nation’s co-hosting duties for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Yesterday, I was honored to Host the Contractors for Akii Bua Stadium- SAMCO, in company of the Hon. Minister of State for Sports – @ Hon. Peter Ogwang. pic.twitter.com/ay2MD3xwXN

— Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero (@JaneRuth_Aceng) March 5, 2026

Engineers on site are currently installing a sophisticated steel space truss roofing system that will span approximately 30,000 square metres of the facility.

The roofing structure is being handled by Turkish engineering specialists POLARKON, who were subcontracted to deliver the complex steel installation.

Once the steel framework is fully secured, the structure will be finished with waterproof roofing sheets designed to provide complete overhead coverage across the stadium.

Beyond the roofing works, construction teams are simultaneously undertaking interior finishing in several sections of the complex.

Tiling and painting are ongoing in the VIP lounges and utility areas, while auxiliary facilities including players’ hostels, a clubhouse and a 25-metre semi-Olympic swimming pool are also taking shape within the stadium precinct.

Despite the visible progress on key structures, the overall project completion currently stands at about 45 percent.

Mechanical, electrical, and general finishing works are among the next major phases expected to push the development closer to completion.

Construction of the 20,000-seater multi-sport facility began in January 2024 and is being executed by Egyptian contractors SAMCO National Construction Company.

The stadium honours Ugandan athletics legend John Akii-Bua, the country’s first Olympic gold medalist who famously won the 400-metre hurdles at the 1972 Munich Olympic Games.

Upon completion, the modern sports complex in Lira City will feature an eight-lane athletics track, a standard football pitch, a 2,000-seat indoor arena, multiple outdoor courts, and parking capacity for up to 1,000 vehicles.

The facility is also expected to play a key role in continental football, with Uganda set to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations alongside Kenya and Tanzania.