By Daniel Muwonge
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has hailed the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) as more than just a football tournament, describing it as a milestone for Uganda’s unity, infrastructure, and regional leadership.
Speaking at the official launch of the event on Friday at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, the President pointed to sport’s deeper value in shaping character, teamwork, and national identity.
“Sports is good for stamina and teaches persistence, as well as character. Sports is all about teamwork. You learn how to coordinate with others,” Museveni said.
He emphasized that the joint hosting of CHAN by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania should remind the continent that East Africa is working as one.
He likened the impact of CHAN to when Uganda hosted CHOGM in 2007, a time when major roads and city infrastructure were upgraded.
“I’m very happy about CHAN. It has motivated us to take action. CHAN is going to showcase Uganda to the outside world, and more foreigners will come to know that the country is a very good destination,” he said.
The President’s remarks framed CHAN as a national opportunity for growth, cooperation, and international visibility.
With Uganda preparing to host matches alongside Kenya and Tanzania in August 2025, Museveni said the tournament has already played a role in boosting government efforts to improve public infrastructure and enhance the country’s global image.
