Uganda: Namboole upgrade drive gains pace with completion timeline set

Renovation works at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, have officially moved into their second phase, marking a major step in Uganda’s preparations to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

Well…..It looks like we are soon getting started with another phase of renovation and upgrade at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole. pic.twitter.com/r7lEr1wAwk

— Erich Mboowa (@erich_mboowa) April 22, 2026

The development was confirmed by stadium Managing Director Jamil Sewanyana, who revealed that preliminary works are already ongoing, including the removal of outdated infrastructure such as old wiring and seating to pave the way for extensive upgrades.

This latest phase follows government approval of a $60 million US dollar budget, aimed at transforming the facility to meet Confederation of African Football (CAF) standards ahead of the continental tournament, which Uganda will co-host with Kenya and Tanzania from June 19 to July 18, 2027.

More on improvements in progress at Namboole for use at AFCON

Namboole, together with Hoima City Stadium, has been designated as Uganda’s official venues for the tournament.

Despite the scale of the works, Sewanyana emphasized that the stadium’s core structure will remain intact.

Instead, the focus will be on strategic expansions and modernization. Plans include extending the main entrance area, particularly around sections 14, 15, and 16, where additional levels will house new VIP and VVIP hospitality lounges.

The need for these improvements was highlighted earlier this year after a CAF inspection flagged several shortcomings, placing the stadium below required international standards.

Among the critical upgrades is the relocation of dressing rooms from the East Stand to the West Stand, along with a complete overhaul of media facilities.

The revamped media tribune will accommodate at least 350 seats, while a new media centre will provide space for up to 100 workstations.

Security and fan experience are also central to the redesign. A state-of-the-art CCTV system will be installed to monitor all areas of the stadium, ensuring comprehensive surveillance from entry points to seating zones and exits.

Access and mobility within the stadium will be significantly improved as well. Dedicated entry gates and parking areas will be introduced for media personnel, VVIP guests, and persons with disabilities, enhancing both convenience and safety.

In addition, the stadium will receive a modern canopy and an upgraded façade, aligning its appearance with contemporary arena designs, similar to Hoima City Stadium.

Capacity expansion is another key component of the project. Once completed, Namboole’s seating will increase by approximately 8,000, raising the total from 37,000 to 45,000.

The renovation is being carried out by the UPDF Engineering Brigade under a one-year contract running from February 2025 to February 2026. Final completion is expected by December 2026, comfortably ahead of the 2027 AFCON tournament.

Sewanyana expressed confidence that timelines will be met, noting that all designs and work plans have already been submitted to CAF for approval as the country intensifies its readiness for hosting Africa’s biggest football event.