By Daniel Nyeko
Construction of the Akii Bua Olympic Stadium in Lira City has entered its final structural phase, with the main stadium framework now 95 percent complete as of early March 2026. However, overall project progress stands at 45 percent as roofing, mechanical, electrical and finishing works continue.
The project remains a central pillar of Uganda’s preparations for the 36th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations 2027, positioning Northern Uganda as a future sports hub.
The stadium has advanced to the roofing stage, with teams installing a complex steel space truss system subcontracted to Turkish engineering firm POLARKON. The system will cover 30,000 square metres. Once the steel framework is secured, it will be completed with waterproof sheets to provide full overhead protection.
Inside the main bowl, finishing works are ongoing. Project manager Mohamed Nazir confirmed that current activities include installation of the main roof structure, tiling and interior painting of VIP sections and utility rooms, and construction of auxiliary facilities such as players’ hostels, a clubhouse and a 25 metre semi Olympic swimming pool.
The approximately 129 million US dollar project, equivalent to about UGX 470 billion, is being executed by SAMCO National Construction Company. The stadium will seat 20,000 spectators.
The multi sport complex will also feature an eight lane athletics track surrounding a hybrid football pitch, a 2,000 seat indoor arena, outdoor courts for basketball, netball and volleyball, and parking space for up to 1,000 vehicles.
The facility is expected to be handed over by late 2026 or early 2027 in time for the continental tournament, which will be co hosted by Kenya and Tanzania.
Beyond AFCON 2027, the stadium honours Olympian John Charles Akii-Bua, who won Uganda’s first Olympic gold medal at the 1972 Games in Munich. Once completed, the facility is expected to drive regional economic activity and strengthen youth sports development in the Lango sub region.
