How far is the construction of the Hoima City Stadium?
Hoima, Uganda — Preparations for the 2027 Total Energies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament are gaining significant traction in Uganda, with the construction of the Hoima City Stadium making remarkable progress. The stadium, envisioned as a multi-sports complex, is set to transform Hoima into a pivotal sports hub.
The facility is under the skilled hands of Turkish construction firm Summa. The Hoima City Stadium is estimated at a cost of $129 million and is designed to meet international standards for hosting major tournaments like AFCON. With an 18-month construction timeline, the project aims to be completed well ahead of the 2027 AFCON games, solidifying Uganda’s readiness as a co-host nation alongside Kenya and Tanzania.
A Visionary Sports Complex
Hoima City Stadium is being developed as Uganda’s second-largest stadium after Mandela National Stadium, Namboole. The main arena will feature an all-seater stadium with a capacity of 20,000 spectators, complemented by a 2,000-seat indoor multi-sports arena. Other amenities include:
A training pitch.
A semi-Olympic-sized swimming pool.
Outdoor courts for basketball, netball, and volleyball.
A parking lot accommodating over 1,000 vehicles.
This ambitious project also integrates facilities for football, athletics, volleyball, tennis, and various indoor sports, promising a holistic sports experience.
Steady Progress Impresses Inspectors
On Saturday, January 11, 2024, a team of inspectors led by National Council of Sports (NCS) assistant general secretary (administration) Joseph Oluga expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work. The inspection team also included engineering officer Nicholas Zirimenya and supervisory consultants from the Ministry of Works and Transport.
“This project is progressing at an impressive pace. Summa is delivering quality work, and we are optimistic that this facility will be ready in time for both the 2024 CHAN and the 2027 AFCON tournaments,” remarked Oluga.
The state-of-the-art sports complex is not only a testament to Uganda’s commitment to sports development but also a symbol of regional cooperation as East Africa prepares to host its first-ever AFCON tournament.
Sports Infrastructure Expansion
Beyond Hoima, the Ugandan government has unveiled plans to invest in other regional stadia to nurture talent and host local and international competitions. Proposed developments include upgrades to facilities in Mbale, Lira, Mbarara, Masaka, and Jinja, signaling a nationwide push to grow the sports sector.
Preparing for 2024 CHAN and 2027 AFCON
The Hoima City Stadium will also play a critical role in hosting matches for the belated 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), set to take place from February 1 to February 28, 2025. This tournament will serve as a precursor to the 2027 AFCON, allowing Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania to test their infrastructure and logistical readiness.
A Boost for Local Talent and Economy
The construction of Hoima City Stadium underscores the government’s commitment to creating platforms for talent development and stimulating economic growth. The facility is expected to attract local and international tournaments, boost tourism, and provide opportunities for young athletes to compete on a global stage.
As Uganda inches closer to the historic co-hosting of AFCON 2027, the Hoima City Stadium stands as a beacon of the country’s dedication to excellence in sports and infrastructure. All eyes now turn to Summa and the local stakeholders as they race against the clock to complete this monumental project.
Where will AFCON 2027 happen?
The 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2027), officially known as Kombe la Mataifa ya Afrika 2027, will mark the 36th edition of Africa’s premier football tournament, organized by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Scheduled to take place in June and July 2027, the tournament will make history as the first to be hosted by three countries—Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. This milestone event also returns the competition to the CECAFA region for the first time in over five decades, since Ethiopia hosted it in 1976.
A total of 24 teams will compete across nine venues in six host cities, including the Hoima Sports Stadium in Uganda, a state-of-the-art facility under construction and set to debut during the tournament. CAF President Patrice Motsepe emphasized a zonal approach to hosting, ensuring all regions of Africa eventually participate in staging this prestigious event.
