Hoima Stadium, one of Uganda’s key venues for the upcoming AFCON 2027 tournament, has been flagged for several shortcomings following a recent inspection by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
The stadium, which was officially launched in December 2025 amid excitement and praise for being completed on time, is now under pressure to meet the strict standards required to host Africa’s biggest football competition.
According to CAF’s latest inspection report, based on visits to co-host nations Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, Hoima Stadium still falls short in several key operational areas.
Authorities have been given until the next inspection in August 2026 to address the concerns.
Key Issues Raised
One of the major problems identified was the placement of team benches, which blocked the view of fans during a recent match between local sides Kitara and Buhimba.
The obstruction not only affected spectators but also created challenges for broadcasters covering the game, raising doubts about the stadium’s readiness for high-level international matches.
CAF inspectors also pointed out weak crowd control measures.
There was poor separation between different categories of fans, allowing some regular ticket holders to access VIP sections—something that goes against international match standards.
Media facilities were another major concern.
The media tribune was found to be too small, with space for fewer than 20 journalists, far below the requirements for a tournament of AFCON’s scale.
In addition, the mixed zone—where players, officials, and journalists interact after matches—was wrongly positioned within the competition area, requiring urgent relocation.
Government Responds
State Minister for Sports, Peter Ogwang, has reassured the public that action is already underway to fix the highlighted issues.
He said the government is working closely with the stadium’s contractor, SUMMA, to ensure all necessary improvements are completed before the next CAF inspection.
“The contractor is on the ground, and we are committed to ensuring the stadium meets CAF Category Four standards before the August inspection,” Ogwang said.
He added that upgrades will also cover players’ dressing rooms, referees’ facilities, and officials’ areas to bring them in line with international expectations.
Wider Preparations Underway
Beyond the stadium itself, the government is also addressing broader infrastructure challenges ahead of AFCON 2027.
Plans are in place to improve transport networks, including roads and airports, as well as expand hotel capacity to accommodate teams, officials, and fans.
The Minister of Education and Sports, Janet Museveni, who chairs the inter-ministerial committee overseeing AFCON preparations, has already presented a cabinet paper outlining the steps needed to resolve these issues.
Race Against Time
With less than two years to go until AFCON 2027, Uganda faces a race against time to ensure Hoima Stadium meets all CAF requirements.
While the challenges are significant, officials remain confident that the necessary fixes will be completed in time for the tournament.
The upcoming August 2026 inspection will be a crucial test of the country’s readiness to host one of Africa’s biggest sporting events.
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