Uganda Rugby Union CEO Isaac Lutwama has expressed confidence that the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Namboole will be fully ready to host the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup by the end of this week, amid ongoing preparations.
“We’ve been using the whole week to dot our last i’s and cross our last t’s,” Lutwama said during a media briefing at the stadium.
“In terms of setup, we’re more than 50 percent done — especially inside the stadium where we’ve nearly completed the ordinary stands and seating.”
Lutwama confirmed that preparations will now shift toward setting up the fan park and marking out access zones for fans.
“From Thursday to Sunday, the main focus will be the fan park. We’re not in a bad place. By Sunday, this entire venue should be completely transformed and ready to welcome rugby and the fans who’ll be coming in on Tuesday.”
Namboole is set to host all matches of the tournament, including the high-stakes Uganda vs Kenya quarterfinal on July 8.
The tournament doubles as a qualifier for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.