AFCON 2027: $60M boost for Namboole Stadium as Uganda ramps up race to meet CAF standards

Uganda’s push to have the Mandela National Stadium fully compliant with continental requirements ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has received major financial backing, with Phase Two of the renovation project set to cost a staggering $60 million (approximately UGX 225 billion).

State Minister for Sports Peter Ogwang revealed the development during an appearance on NBS Sport, emphasizing government commitment to transforming the aging facility into a modern arena that aligns with current Confederation of African Football standards.

According to Ogwang, discussions involving the UPDF Engineering Brigade and the Ministry of Works have already taken place, with the contract now in its final clearance stages.

State Minister for Sport. @OgwangOgwang confirms that Phase 2 for Namboole Stadium remodeling will cost $60 million (about UGX.225 billion) to fit the CAF standards.#NBSportEndibaYaffe #NBSportUpdates pic.twitter.com/E1LYQ4pUEZ

— NBS Sport (@NBSportUg) March 30, 2026

Once approved, the army-led construction unit will resume work on the stadium to deliver a structure that meets the latest international benchmarks.

He noted that the current design of Namboole dates back to the 1970s, making the upgrade not just necessary but urgent in order to match modern stadium requirements seen in 2024, 2025, and beyond.

In addition to structural upgrades, the stadium will also see an expansion in capacity, with over 8,000 new seats expected to be installed. However, Ogwang admitted the complexity of the task, stressing that remodeling an old facility presents greater challenges than constructing a new one from scratch.

The urgency of the project is further heightened by Uganda’s co-hosting duties for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations alongside Kenya and Tanzania.

Despite the joint bid success, a recent CAF inspection raised concerns about the readiness of the three nations to stage the tournament. The report highlighted significant compliance gaps at Namboole, particularly in meeting CAF Category 4 standards.

Among the proposed interventions are partial demolition of the West Stand, structural expansion, and a complete roof overhaul. However, CAF flagged the initial 15-month construction timeline as unrealistic for AFCON 2027 preparations.

Instead, the continental body advised a revised approach that prioritizes retaining the existing structural framework while accelerating works to ensure completion by December 2026.

With time ticking and expectations mounting, Uganda’s ambitious $60 million investment could prove decisive in ensuring Namboole is ready to host Africa’s biggest football spectacle.