UPDF engineering Brigade Team
The Government of Uganda has allocated over 100 billion shillings to prepare for the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN) tournament, which will be jointly hosted by Uganda and Kenya. The tournament, organized under the Pamoja Bid, is set to showcase Uganda’s readiness for hosting major international football events, including the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Funding Details
The funding allocation follows a retreat organized by the Ministry of Education and Sports to equip the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) with the necessary tools and guidelines for the tournament. Dr. Bernard Ogwel, Chairperson of the Finance Committee and General Secretary of the National Council of Sports, confirmed that the funds, lobbied from a supplementary budget of 1.3 trillion shillings, will be released next week to aid the organizing team.
A significant portion of the funds, 49 billion shillings, will be paid to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) as a commitment fee. This payment is a critical step in fulfilling CAF’s stringent requirements for hosting international tournaments.
Organizing Structure
The LOC has been structured into 13 specialized subcommittees tasked with ensuring the smooth execution of the tournament. These subcommittees cover critical areas such as workforce management, infrastructure development, safety, fan management, and ticketing. State Minister of Sports, Hon. Peter Ogwang, emphasized the importance of dedication and efficiency in executing these responsibilities, highlighting that Uganda’s co-hosting of CHAN is a milestone in its sports development agenda.
Infrastructure Development
Several stadiums and training grounds have been earmarked for renovation and upgrades to meet CAF standards. These include:
- Kyambogo University Training Grounds
- Kadiba Project Grounds
- Wankulukuku Stadium
These facilities will benefit from substantial investments to ensure they align with CAF’s recommendations for stadium infrastructure, player facilities, and spectator safety.
Government Commitment
Minister Ogwang reiterated the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability in managing the allocated funds. He issued a stern warning against any mismanagement, underscoring that the successful hosting of CHAN will pave the way for Uganda’s broader ambitions in sports development.
Regional Collaboration
The CHAN tournament marks a significant collaboration between Uganda and Kenya under the Pamoja Bid, further solidifying regional partnerships in sports. The tournament is expected to not only boost football development but also create opportunities for tourism and economic growth in the region.
With preparations in full swing, Uganda aims to set a benchmark for excellence in hosting international tournaments, demonstrating its capacity and commitment to African football.
