FUFA Executive Committee Member and NRM Sports Spokesperson Rogers Mulindwa has rallied sports stakeholders to support the ruling government in the January 15, 2026 elections, saying the gains made in Uganda’s sports sector are tangible and worth protecting.
In a one-on-one interview with Busoga Times at his office at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo—where he also serves as Stadium Chairman—Mulindwa said Uganda’s sports transformation is directly linked to sustained government investment under President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
Musa Kikuuno: Hon. Mulindwa, as Uganda heads to the January 15, 2026 elections, many sports men and women want to know whether there are real gains in sports worth protecting under the NRM government. What do you say?
Rogers Mulindwa:
When President Museveni came to power in 1986, Uganda had only one stadium, and even Nakivubo was in a poor state. Today, we have facilities like Hoima Stadium, Akii-Bua Stadium and the Teryet Olympic Stadium in Kapchorwa. These developments are a result of deliberate government investment. At FUFA, we could not afford the quality coaches we have today without government support. The sports budget has grown from about Shs4 billion in 2013 to nearly Shs400 billion, with Shs17 billion coming directly from government. These are gains worth protecting.
Musa Kikuuno: Some viewers feel Busoga Region has been left out. What gains should the region look at?
Rogers Mulindwa:
Busoga is not left out. Government plans include upgrading 15 stadiums nationwide, and Kyabazinga Stadium in Bugembe is among them. The proposal is to develop 5,000 to 10,000-seater stadiums with floodlights and quality playing surfaces. Masaka Recreation Ground has already received Shs9 billion, and others, including Kyabazinga Stadium, are lined up.
Musa Kikuuno: If protest votes turn violent, could that affect Uganda’s AFCON 2028 hosting ambitions?
Rogers Mulindwa:
Yes, violence would affect preparations, but Ugandans are wise. We expect peaceful elections in 2026, President Museveni to win again, and Uganda to successfully host AFCON 2028. That will be a proud moment for the country.
Musa Kikuuno: Among the eight presidential candidates, who do you believe has the strongest sports vision?
Rogers Mulindwa:
President Museveni stands out. His commitment to sports is clear. For instance, during the CHAN tournament in Uganda, some leading opposition figures never appeared at Namboole. That shows limited interest. Others are young and lack deep understanding of African sports structures. For sports stakeholders, our choice is clear.
Musa Kikuuno: You’ve focused a lot on football. How about other sports?
Rogers Mulindwa:
Other sports are also progressing well. Netball recently won the Celtic Cup and narrowly lost to South Africa in the Africa Netball Championships. Our athletes continue to win medals internationally, and some are now on government payroll as a reward for their performance. That shows commitment across sports.
Musa Kikuuno: Beyond stadiums, is Uganda ready to host AFCON in terms of health, transport and accommodation?
Rogers Mulindwa:
Yes. Our health systems are functional, road infrastructure has improved, and CAF-standard hotels are available across the country. Government has invested heavily to ensure Uganda is ready.
Musa Kikuuno: Finally, is President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni your preferred candidate in 2026?
Rogers Mulindwa:
One hundred percent yes. He has consistently supported sports development. Anyone who values sports should vote NRM on January 15, 2026.
Musa Kikuuno: Your closing message?
Rogers Mulindwa:
Choose peace. Peace is what allows sports and the nation to grow.
