With a value of $129 million: Uganda Begins Construction of Akii-Bua Stadium for AFCON 2027

The plans for the much-awaited TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027, which Uganda will co-host, took a big step forward on Tuesday. The site for the Akii-Bua Stadium was officially given to the construction team to start work.

The ceremony, which took place at the stadium, marked the beginning of the construction phase. The site, spanning over 18.455 hectares, was handed over to Ms SAMCO National Construction Company, an Egyptian firm. Government Chief Whip Hon. Denis Hamson Obua represented the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Janet Kataha Museveni, and Minister of State for Sports, Hon. Peter Ogwang, who were absent due to other AFCON-related meetings.

The lengthy process to arrive to this significant stage was discussed by Obua, who noted that talks with President Yoweri Museveni and other relevant parties began in February 2024. Approximately $129 million will be spent on the project, which is expected to be completed in 20 months and is designed to satisfy international standards. The stadium will have a main area with 20,000 seats, training spaces, an indoor stadium for multiple sports, a swimming pool, and other sports facilities.

The NCS stressed the need to hire local workers, following Uganda’s Buy Uganda, Build Uganda policy. The construction will provide jobs, with a focus on skilled workers and ensuring a balance between men and women.

This project is part of Uganda’s plan to host AFCON 2027 matches, alongside the ongoing work on Hoima Stadium and upgrades at Mandela National Stadium. The Akii-Bua Stadium, along with other venues, will be important for the continental tournament.

Source: [Kawowo Sports]