KAMPALA — The government has directed contractors working on key infrastructure projects across the country to accelerate construction works as Uganda intensifies preparations to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The directive was issued by Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja during a high-level meeting held on Wednesday with ministers and heads of government agencies to assess the progress of outstanding health, aviation and sports infrastructure projects earmarked for the continental football tournament.
The meeting forms part of government’s efforts to ensure that Uganda delivers world-class facilities ahead of the tournament, which the country will jointly host alongside Kenya and Tanzania.
According to the Prime Minister, the government remains committed to delivering all the required infrastructure within the stipulated timelines to guarantee Uganda’s successful hosting of one of Africa’s biggest sporting events.
“The contractors have been directed to expedite construction works at health, aviation and sports facilities in various locations to get the country ready to host the continental tournament,” Ms Nabbanja said.
The Prime Minister noted that hosting AFCON 2027 presents Uganda with a unique opportunity not only to showcase its sporting capabilities but also to boost economic growth, create jobs and improve public infrastructure that will benefit citizens long after the tournament.
Government officials who attended the meeting reviewed the status of ongoing projects and discussed measures aimed at addressing implementation challenges that could delay completion timelines.
The infrastructure projects under construction are expected to play a critical role in Uganda’s readiness for the tournament. They include sports facilities that will host teams and fans, improvements in aviation infrastructure to facilitate the movement of players and visitors, and health facilities to strengthen emergency response and healthcare services during the competition.
The government has previously identified AFCON 2027 as a strategic national project whose benefits extend beyond football. Economists and policymakers have argued that investments made ahead of the tournament are expected to stimulate sectors such as tourism, hospitality, transport, construction and trade.
With thousands of visitors expected to travel to Uganda during the tournament, officials say improving airports, roads and healthcare facilities will enhance the country’s competitiveness as a tourism and investment destination.
The Prime Minister emphasised that timely completion of the projects is critical if Uganda is to maximise the opportunities that come with hosting the prestigious continental championship.
The tournament is also expected to provide business opportunities for local enterprises through the supply of goods and services, create employment opportunities for young people and promote Uganda’s cultural and tourism attractions to an international audience.
Government has since tasked the responsible ministries, agencies and contractors to closely monitor the implementation schedules and ensure that construction works are completed within the agreed timelines.
As the countdown to AFCON 2027 continues, Uganda’s preparations are now entering a crucial phase, with government signalling that no delays will be tolerated in delivering the infrastructure required to successfully host the continental football spectacle.
Hosting AFCON 2027 is widely seen as an opportunity for Uganda to leave a lasting legacy through improved public infrastructure and increased economic activity while cementing its place on Africa’s sporting map.
