By 
In a historic milestone for Ugandan sports, Makerere University has been officially designated as one of the training facilities for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027.
This recognition follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Makerere University and the National Council of Sports (NCS) for the construction of a state-of-the-art stadium on the university’s main sports grounds.
The agreement, signed on March 26, 2025, was witnessed by Hon. Peter Ogwang, Minister of State for Sports, with Mr. Ambrose Tashobya, Chairman of NCS, representing the council.
The collaboration is a testament to the government’s commitment to upgrading Uganda’s sporting infrastructure to international standards.
The new stadium is set to break ground in the 2025/2026 financial year, financed by the Government of Uganda through the Ministry of Education and Sports.
With a budget of UGX 21 billion, the stadium will feature a full size football pitch, an eight-lane athletics track, and a modern pavilion, aligning with CAF and FIFA specifications. It is part of a broader UGX 1.5 trillion initiative aimed at revamping sports infrastructure across the country, including the redevelopment of Namboole, Akibua, and Hoima stadiums.
For Makerere University, the stadium is more than just a sports facility, it is a long-cherished dream coming to life. Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe described the project as a “dream come true,” emphasizing its potential to nurture student talent, strengthen community engagement, and elevate Makerere as a hub for elite sports development.
Hon. Ogwang echoed these sentiments, highlighting the stadium’s crucial role in Uganda’s preparations for AFCON 2027. He noted that beyond serving as a training ground for international teams, the facility would contribute to strengthening Uganda’s sports ecosystem by providing a world-class venue for athletes.
State Minister for Sports, Hon. Peter Ogwang.
To guarantee the highest standards in construction and functionality, the project will be jointly supervised by the Ministry of Works and Transport, the NCS, and Makerere University.
The UPDF Engineering Brigade has been appointed as the lead contractor, ensuring structural integrity and timely completion.
Mr. Tashobya reassured stakeholders that the stadium would be fully equipped to meet CAF standards, including the capability to host both daytime and nighttime matches.
He also encouraged Makerere University to incorporate student training programs in stadium management and operations, fostering skill development in sports administration.
Makerere University’s inclusion as an AFCON 2027 training ground marks a transformative chapter in its rich history. The facility will not only serve international teams but also act as a breeding ground for future Ugandan sports stars.
As construction plans take shape, excitement is building for what promises to be a landmark achievement for both Makerere University and the nation.
With this development, Uganda is poised to make its mark on the continental stage, showcasing world class infrastructure and a commitment to the growth of sports.
