Federation of Uganda Football Associations Executive Committee Member Ronnie Kalema has been invited by the United States Government to take part in a high level benchmarking programme focused on mega sporting event organisation and venues for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Kalema, who also serves as FUFA Executive Secretary in charge of Football Development and Chairperson of the Event Operations Sub Committee of the AFCON 2027 Local Organising Committee in Uganda, will participate in the International Visitor Leadership Program.
The programme, themed “Mega Sporting Events and Economic Prosperity II”, runs from February 28 to March 22, 2026 in the United States.
The visit will see him engage key stakeholders and tour stadiums and facilities that have hosted and are preparing to host the 2026 World Cup. The benchmarking exercise will focus on venue infrastructure, operational systems, governance structures, safety and security coordination, commercial models and legacy planning linked to global sporting events.
FUFA described the invitation as an endorsement of its growing role in football development and event management internationally. It also signals confidence in Uganda’s preparations to co host AFCON 2027.
Speaking ahead of the trip, Kalema said the exposure will shape Uganda’s planning models, competition logistics, stadium management structures and long term legacy strategies as the country gears up for the continental tournament.
FUFA says it will continue leveraging international partnerships to raise standards in football governance, infrastructure development and major event delivery as AFCON 2027 approaches.
