Uganda commits $361 million to boost sports infrastructure ahead of major tournaments

Hoima City stadium is already under construction.

Photo by Vision Group Media.

In a significant move to enhance Uganda’s sports landscape, the government has earmarked 1.3 trillion shillings (approximately $361 million) for sports infrastructure development in the 2025/26 national budget.

This announcement was made by Finance Minister Matia Kasaija during the national budget reading held at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds. The funding will target the completion and upgrade of key stadiums and training facilities across the country in preparation for hosting major continental tournaments like CHAN 2024 and AFCON 2027.

A large portion of the allocation will go towards the ongoing construction of the Akii-Bua Olympic Stadium and Hoima City Stadium, as well as the second phase of renovations at Mandela National Stadium. This next phase, which is expected to commence in October, will focus on revamping the VIP and VVIP sections.

Progress is already underway on several fronts. The Hoima City Stadium is projected to be completed by December, while the Akii-Bua Stadium is expected to be officially handed over to the government by the end of next year.

Minister Kasaija revealed that the government has already invested 496.8 billion shillings in the construction of Hoima and Akii-Bua stadiums, alongside other training facilities spread across the country. He also pointed out recent achievements such as the upgrade of Mandela National Stadium and the commissioning of the high-altitude training center in Teryet, Kapchorwa.

These infrastructure developments are part of Uganda’s broader ambition to strengthen its capacity to host international sporting events and nurture local athletic talent.