HOIMA CITY – Uganda has sent a powerful message to the rest of Africa. Yesterday, December 24, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni officially opened the ultra-modern Hoima City Stadium, declaring the country fully ready to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The $129 million (UGX 463 billion) facility, which stands as a masterpiece of modern engineering in the Bunyoro sub-region, was completed in record-breaking time. While the original contract signed in June 2024 gave a 16-month window, Turkish contractor Summa delivered the keys in just 12 months.
Speaking to a packed crowd of thousands, President Museveni praised the efficiency of the project. “This AFCON has stimulated us to do something here in Hoima,” the President noted. “This stadium is evidence of what we can achieve with proper planning and discipline.”
To the delight of the fans, the President even stepped onto the pitch to showcase his football skills, juggling the ball at the center circle to officially “kick off” the stadium’s life.
More Than Just a Football Pitch
The Hoima City Stadium isn’t just a win for football; it is a multi-sport hub designed to transform the region’s economy. The 34-acre complex includes:
20,000-Seat Main Arena: Featuring a state-of-the-art hybrid grass pitch.
Indoor Sports Arena: A 2,000-seater venue for basketball, netball, and volleyball.
Semi-Olympic Swimming Pool: Ready for continental competitions.
Full Athletics Track: To nurture Uganda’s world-class running talent.
A Historic Opening Match
The ceremony was capped off with a thrilling friendly match between the local favorites Kitara FC and KCCA FC. In a result that sent the home fans into a frenzy, Kitara FC secured a 1-0 victory, scoring the very first goal in the stadium’s history.
The Road to AFCON 2027
The First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni, described the stadium as a “Christmas gift to the nation.” She revealed that this is just the beginning, as the government plans to have at least ten international-standard sports facilities ready by June 2027.
With Namboole’s renovation in the final stages and Hoima now open, Uganda’s “Pamoja” dream with Kenya and Tanzania is no longer a plan—it is a reality.
What an amazing achievement for Uganda! It’s fantastic to see such a significant investment in sports infrastructure.