In the wake of a joint bid from Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania being approved to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), the question arises: which additional stadium will join Mandela National Stadium in hosting Afcon finals matches in 2027?
According to the bid document submitted by the Ugandan Football Association (Fufa), Denver Godwin Stadium (Garuga), St Mary’s Stadium, and Nakivubo Stadium are mentioned as potential stadiums in Uganda. Additionally, Kampala International School Uganda (Kisu) and Muteesa II Stadium Wankulukuku have been designated as training grounds.
To successfully host eight Afcon matches in 2027, including all of Uganda’s group matches, the country will require two stadiums and four training grounds. Fufa Akii Bua Stadium and Hoima Stadium are the proposed new stadiums outlined in the bid document. The bid also designates Entebbe International Airport and Kabalega Airport in Hoima as transit hubs during the event.
Mr. Tom Butime, the Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities minister, emphasized the importance of sports tourism in determining the choice of sports infrastructure in preparation for Afcon 2027. He suggested various locations within Uganda for potential stadium sites, including Fort Portal, the northern region, the eastern region, the western region, and Masaka.
Ms. Nancy Okwong, the spokesperson of the Uganda Tour Operators Association (UTOA), anticipates that Afcon 2027 will attract more tourists to Uganda, thereby increasing revenue through enhanced publicity and marketing.
Mr. Simplicious Gessa, the Uganda Tourism Board spokesperson, highlighted the different types of tourism in Uganda, including nature-based tourism, adventure tourism, and adventure-based tourism.
To meet the Confederation of African Football’s (Caf) requirements for hosting, match venues should be near an airport, a level five hospital, and a five-star hotel. Fufa identified Sheraton and Serena (Kampala) as the country’s five-star hotels in its bid document.
