President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni wednesday commissioned the Hoima City Stadium, marking a major milestone in Uganda’s preparations to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) alongside Kenya and Tanzania.
The commissioning ceremony, held in Hoima City, Bunyoro sub-region, was attended by thousands of residents, sports fans, government officials, and dignitaries from across the country and abroad.
The President was accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataaha Museveni, who oversaw the project’s implementation.
Constructed by Turkish firm Summa International Construction Company Inc, the Hoima City Stadium is a $129 million (approximately Shs463 billion) multi-sports complex that was completed in a record 12 months, four months ahead of schedule.
The Government of Uganda signed the construction contract with Summa in June 2024 as part of preparations for AFCON 2027, which Uganda will co-host under the “Pamoja Bid” with Kenya and Tanzania.
Addressing the gathering, President Museveni praised Summa for what he described as exceptional workmanship and efficiency, noting that the project stood as evidence of what Uganda can achieve with proper planning, discipline, and prioritisation.
“have seen the stadium, and I have also seen some of the roads they have constructed. They are very good workers, and we are going to do more with them,” President Museveni said.
“It is now my pleasure to officially commission the Hoima City Stadium,” he added, drawing loud cheers from the crowd.
To symbolically launch the stadium, the President stepped onto the pitch and juggled a football three times at the centre circle, amid ululations and applause from thousands of football fans who had packed the stands.
Built on a 34-acre piece of land on the outskirts of Hoima City, the stadium complex comprises a 20,000-seater outdoor stadium designed to host football, rugby, and athletics, as well as a 2,000-seater indoor arena for indoor sports such as basketball, netball, volleyball, and other disciplines.
President Museveni commended the family of the late Dr. Rujumba, who donated 10 acres of land towards the project.
President Museveni also clarified public concerns regarding the financing of the stadium, stressing that the project was fully funded by the Government of Uganda, following a strategic decision to avoid high-interest pre-financing arrangements.
“Initially, the Summa company was supposed to pre-finance the project, but we found that their money came with a lot of interest. So, we said no — let us fund the project ourselves,” the President explained.
The facility meets international and FIFA-compliant standards, making it suitable for hosting continental and international competitions beyond AFCON 2027.
In addition to the main stadium, the complex includes training areas, athlete facilities, administrative blocks, media zones, parking areas, and modern security and safety installations.
