The Managing Director of Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, Jamil Sewanyana, has confirmed the commencement of the second phase of the stadium’s renovation.
The upgrades are aimed at meeting CAF standards ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, which will be co-hosted by Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya from June 19 to July 18, 2027.
Earlier, State Minister for Sports Peter Ogwang confirmed that the government had approved 60 million US dollars for the second phase of Namboole’s redevelopment to ensure readiness for the continental showpiece.
Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, alongside Hoima City Stadium, are the two venues Uganda will use for the tournament.
Sewanyana explained that the main structure of the stadium will be preserved, with targeted expansions to improve facilities.
“What we are going to do with the main stand is that we are not demolishing the structure. All the stands will remain intact. However, we are going to extend the building at the main entrance, particularly around sections 14, 15 and 16. We shall construct additional levels, including VVIP and VIP lounges,” he said.
In February this year, a CAF inspection report identified several gaps, indicating that Namboole was below the required standards.
Sewanyana noted that the upgraded media tribune will meet CAF’s recommendation of at least 350 seats, while the media centre will accommodate up to 100 workstations.
“The areas highlighted by CAF include relocating the dressing rooms from the East Stand to the West Stand, as well as upgrading the media tribune and media facilities to meet the required standards,” he added.
The renovations will also include the installation of a modern CCTV surveillance system capable of monitoring all sections of the stadium, from entry points to seating areas and exits.
“CCTV cameras must capture all angles of the stadium, from when fans enter to when they take their seats and eventually leave,” Sewanyana said.
He further revealed plans to improve access systems, including dedicated entry gates and parking spaces for the media, VVIP guests and persons with disabilities.
“We are also focusing on improving access by introducing dedicated gates, including those for the media and their parking, as well as provisions for VVIPs and persons with disabilities,” he noted.
In addition, the stadium will receive a new canopy and façade similar to the design of Hoima City Stadium.
The second phase of redevelopment will also increase the seating capacity by approximately 8,000, raising it from 37,000 to 45,000.
The works are being undertaken by the UPDF Engineering Brigade under a one-year contract running from February 2025 to February 2026.
Sewanyana confirmed that renovation works are already underway, including decommissioning activities such as the removal of old wiring and seats, while designs and work plans have been submitted to CAF for approval.
“The renovation works at Namboole have already commenced. The contractor has started decommissioning, removing wires and seats, as preparations continue for the next phases,” he said.
The stadium is expected to be ready by December 2026, with Sewanyana expressing confidence that it will be completed in time for AFCON 2027.
About the author
More from this authorGeoffrey Mugabi
Geoffrey Mugabi is a sports journalist with a focus on local sports and a passion for storytelling both on and off the pitch
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