As the $129 million Hoima City Stadium nears a key milestone, a fresh debate has emerged over what name it should carry.
The family of the late Dr. Rujumba, East Africa’s first veterinary doctor, is calling for the facility to be named in his honor, citing his historic legacy and direct contribution to the stadium’s development.
Dr. Rujumba donated 10 of the 34 acres currently hosting the sports complex, which is being built in preparation for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
Speaking to The Morning Breeze, Alan Mwesigwa, the NBS Bureau Chief for the Kitara region, revealed that family members want the stadium to be officially named “Dr. Rujumba Stadium” as a tribute to his life and contribution to the region—similar to how Lira’s Aki Bua Stadium was named after the legendary Ugandan Olympian.
However, not everyone agrees. Some Bunyoro Kingdom leaders believe the stadium should instead be named after Omukama Kabalega, the iconic 19th-century king who led resistance against British colonialism.
They argue that Kabalega’s legacy is deeply woven into the cultural and historical identity of the region.
Meanwhile, construction of the stadium is moving fast.
Project contractors from Turkish firm Ms Suuma say the main 20,000-seater stadium is 70 percent complete and on track to be finished by the end of July.
The entire facility—including an indoor arena, semi-Olympic swimming pool, outdoor courts, and auxiliary pitch—is expected to be handed over to government by December 2025.
