In 2020, Uganda’s Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, faced a ban from hosting international matches due to substandard conditions.
This setback forced the Uganda Cranes to play home games abroad, including a 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Tanzania in Egypt, and international friendlies with Comoros and Ghana in Morocco.
Now, with Namboole fully renovated and operational, Uganda has reclaimed its status as a viable host for major football matches.
Speaking at Sheraton Hotel on Sunday, Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa reflected on the challenging period and how far the country has come.
He emphasized the importance of patience, recalling the public frustration when Uganda was forced to play on foreign soil.
“I remember how the public criticized the government when the Cranes played in Egypt, but now we’re hosting other nations that lack the facilities we have,” Tayebwa said.
Namboole, now a beacon of Uganda’s sporting revival, is not only hosting Uganda’s AFCON qualifiers but also matches for nations like Kenya and Zimbabwe, whose home stadiums do not meet international standards.
Tayebwa highlighted Uganda’s current role as a continental sports hub, showcasing its ability to support neighboring countries.
He praised the leadership of President Yoweri Museveni, First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports Janet Museveni, and State Minister for Sports Peter Ogwang for their efforts in revitalizing the country’s sports infrastructure.
He also could not thank FUFA and the UDPF Engineers Brigade enough.
Tayebwa also met with Manchester United goalkeeper André Onana, who is in Uganda with Cameroon for their 2025 AFCON qualifier against Kenya.
Reflecting on Uganda’s progress, Tayebwa said, “We are now able to host stars like Onana because of the work we’ve done.”
“Helping out our neighbors Kenya and Zimbabwe highlights our growth and contribution to African sports.”
With Uganda set to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations alongside Kenya and Tanzania, and the African Nations Championship (CHAN) coming in 2025, Tayebwa stressed the importance of continued development in sports infrastructure.
Uganda’s turnaround from infrastructure struggles to becoming a continental host for major football events signals the nation’s growing influence in African sports.
