Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja has assured Ugandans that the country will be ready to co-host the Africa Cup of Nations 2027, despite concerns raised by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) over stadium standards.
Nabbanja said the government is working to address all gaps identified in recent inspection reports.
“We are going to be more than ready because those remaining gaps will be bridged within this period between now and when AFCON takes place. We are ready, and we are moving on very well,” she said.
Her remarks followed concerns raised by Leader of Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi, who questioned Uganda’s preparedness despite significant public investment.
“Uganda, alongside Kenya, is preparing to co-host AFCON 2027. Parliament has been appropriating funds because this event presents significant opportunities for regional integration, tourism, and economic growth,” Ssenyonyi said.
He, however, noted that recent CAF inspections revealed major shortcomings.
“We have not met CAF requirements, including the Category Four standards that are critical following inspection,” he said.
Ssenyonyi cited Hoima City Stadium, where government has invested nearly shs500 billion, saying it still falls short of required standards.
“This stadium was completed and officially commissioned in December 2025, but technical assessments show it does not yet meet CAF operational standards,” he said.
He also raised concerns about Mandela National Stadium, which has received about shs346 billion for renovations.
“This facility continues to exhibit major compliance gaps relative to CAF Category Four standards,” he added.
On Akii-Bua Stadium, Ssenyonyi pointed to slow construction progress.
“Construction is currently at about 30%, yet it is one of the venues being considered for AFCON, which is fast approaching,” he said.
He further highlighted deficiencies in training infrastructure, noting that facilities at Makerere University, Kyambogo University, and Wankulukuku Stadium remain below international standards.
Ssenyonyi also cited broader concerns raised by CAF, including unrealistic construction timelines, slow project implementation, and inadequate supporting infrastructure such as roads and five-star hotels.
“We seem to be shooting first and aiming later. There should have been a clear template from CAF before construction,” he said.
He called for greater accountability, urging government to update Parliament and the public on progress.
“It is important that Parliament receives a comprehensive update so that taxpayers’ money is not put to waste,” he added.
Despite these concerns, the government maintains that Uganda will meet all requirements in time to successfully host the continental tournament.
