Ugandan entrepreneurs, startups and small businesses have been urged to begin preparing for opportunities linked to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, with FUFA officials highlighting the tournament’s potential to drive economic growth and create new business prospects across multiple sectors.
The message was delivered during an information session held at the American Center Kampala on Thursday, where FUFA Executive Committee member Ronnie Kalema and FUFA Deputy Chief Executive Officer Sheba Ronah Ampaire were among the guest speakers addressing members of the business community and the public.
Kalema opened the session by outlining the significance of the Africa Cup of Nations, describing it as the continent’s premier football tournament and highlighting the benefits previous host nations have enjoyed.
He noted that hosting AFCON has historically boosted international visibility, stimulated economic activity and accelerated infrastructure development in host countries. Kalema also reflected on the historic nature of the Pamoja bid involving Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania, which will see three nations jointly host the tournament for the first time.
He said the competition presents Uganda with opportunities that extend beyond football, offering a platform to showcase the country while generating wider economic benefits.
Ampaire later focused on how local businesses can position themselves to benefit from the tournament as preparations gather pace ahead of the 2027 finals.
Her presentation highlighted opportunities in sectors including hospitality, transport, tourism, information and communications technology, events management, merchandising and the creative industries.
She also guided participants through supplier registration requirements and advised businesses on the documentation they should prepare to improve their readiness for future procurement opportunities linked to the tournament.
Ampaire further encouraged small and medium enterprises to explore joint ventures, subcontracting arrangements and other partnership models that could help them participate in projects associated with AFCON 2027.
The session also featured a presentation on the operational architecture for the tournament, giving attendees an overview of the structures expected to support planning and delivery of the continental showpiece.
Uganda will co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations alongside Kenya and Tanzania under the Pamoja partnership, with organisers increasingly turning their attention to ensuring businesses and communities are positioned to benefit from one of the biggest sporting events ever staged in East Africa.
