President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has commended the rapid progress on the construction works of Hoima City Stadium, reaffirming the government’s commitment to sports infrastructure development.
Speaking during an inspection visit in Hoima City today, the President in the company of Maama Janet Museveni, the First Lady and Minister of Sports and Education, emphasized that while Uganda has a rich sporting history, investment in sports facilities had long been hindered by economic challenges. He noted that apart from Namboole and Nakivubo, the country had not done much in terms of stadium development but assured Ugandans that the tide was turning.
He reiterated that with Uganda co-hosting the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), there was an urgent need to strengthen infrastructure, not only for sports but also for tourism and hospitality.
He pledged government support in stimulating the private sector, particularly in hotel expansion in Hoima City, to accommodate the influx of visitors expected during the tournament.
Additionally, he announced plans to upgrade Akii-Bua Stadium and transform Gulu Airport into an international facility, further boosting regional connectivity.
The President also applauded SUMMA for its efficiency, stating that the progress achieved in a short time was a testament to the contractor’s capability.
The Vice President H.E Jessica Alupo highlighted the role of sports in enhancing Uganda’s international reputation, stressing that investments in modern stadiums would provide local athletes with better training facilities and increase the country’s competitiveness on the global stage.
The Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja affirmed Uganda’s readiness to co-host AFCON 2027, describing the Hoima Stadium project as a game-changer for the region. She emphasized that beyond football, the stadium would become a hub for youth development programs, helping to nurture talent and create employment.
She noted that the construction had already generated job and business opportunities in Hoima, benefiting the local economy. She also lauded SUMMA’s professionalism and commitment to delivering quality work on time.
On her part, Maama Janet expressed gratitude to President Museveni for inspecting the construction works of Hoima City Stadium as one of the facilities that shall be hosting the Africa Cup of Nations tournament in 2027 (AFCON-2027) in the months of July/August 2027.
“I am happy indeed to see the tremendous progress made by SUMMA within this period of seven months since construction started in September 2024.
I always want to thank Hon. Peter Ogwang and his team as well as the local leadership who have been keeping an eye on the progress of the project and always bringing feedback to me where further support by the government is required,” she said.
