Fufa, the Federation of Uganda Football Associations, is currently in discussions with the Confederation of African Football (Caf) regarding the possibility of hosting the Uganda Cranes’ World Cup qualifiers at Mandela Stadium in June.
With matches against Botswana and Algeria scheduled for match-days 3 and 4, respectively, in June, Fufa is keen to have these crucial games played on home turf. Previous international fixtures were held abroad due to the absence of a suitable stadium.
A recent inspection report by Caf revealed shortcomings at Namboole Stadium, which has been undergoing renovations for the past two years. Several deficiencies were highlighted, including the relocation of the media tribunal, unfinished ceiling work, upgrades to floodlights, improvements to the VVIP section, and a reduction in seating capacity to address visibility issues.
In response, Col Peter Kidemuka, the project engineer, assured that most issues were already being addressed and would be resolved soon. He confirmed that floodlights, a key concern, had been ordered and were expected to arrive shortly. Kidemuka pledged that the stadium would be ready by May 25, well in advance of the Uganda Cranes’ fixtures.
However, meeting this deadline does not guarantee Namboole’s approval by Caf. The confederation typically conducts inspections two months before a match and notifies member associations accordingly. Decolus Kiiza, Fufa’s deputy CEO in charge of football, expressed optimism but refrained from confirming Namboole as the venue. Negotiations with Caf are ongoing to honor the contractor’s new deadline and inform Algeria and Botswana of any developments. Kiiza cited floodlights as the major hindrance to meeting the deadline.
Should Namboole fail to meet the requirements, Fufa is considering relocating Uganda Cranes’ games to Tanzania or Egypt. This would mark the third time within less than two years that Uganda has had to host home matches away.
In June 2023, Uganda Cranes hosted its African Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualifying match against Algeria in Cameroon after Mandela National Stadium was deemed unfit to host the qualifiers. This decision led to an apology from State Minister Peter Ogwang, who had previously assured Ugandan football fans that the Cranes’ next home game would be hosted at Mandela Stadium.
Concerns have also been raised about the readiness of East African countries to host the 2027 African Cup of Nations, following the successful bid by the region. Tanzania is the only country with a stadium approved by Caf, but Fufa boss Moses Magogo believes Caf bases its decisions on countries’ plans to fulfill hosting requirements and the commitment of their governments.
In Uganda, efforts are focused on renovating Namboole Stadium and constructing two additional international stadiums in Arua (Akii Bua) and Hoima. Minister Ogwang blames delays on the ministry of Finance’s failure to release funds promptly. Negotiations with international construction firms are underway to expedite the construction of the new stadiums.
Despite challenges, Uganda remains committed to meeting Caf standards and fulfilling its obligations as a host nation.
