Bunyoro urged to prepare for AFCON 2027 opportunities

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State minister for sports Peter Ogwang has urged the people of the Bunyoro sub-region to prepare strategically for the opportunities expected as the region hosts the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2027.

Ogwang said the tournament will attract hundreds of visitors who will require accommodation, food, transport, healthcare and entertainment.

He emphasised that local business owners must prioritise improving and standardising their services, particularly in hospitality, health services, recreation and transport.

Ogwang revealed that the government has secured sh101 billion to support the hotel industry in upgrading facilities to meet international standards.

He added that sh213 billion has been allocated to upgrade the 34km road network connecting to Hoima City Stadium, noting that these developments will create opportunities that benefit local communities.

Peter Ogwang, the state minister for Sports handing over the contractal documents to the UPDF engineering brigade as they launched the construction of the training play grounds. (Photo by Peter Abaanabasazi)

The minister made the remarks on April 29, 2026, while commissioning the construction of two training grounds in Hoima city and Masindi district.

The projects, Hoima boma grounds in Hoima city and Masindi Stadium in Masindi district, will be implemented by the UPDF Engineering Brigade at a cost of sh33 billion.

According to Ogwang, Hoima Boma grounds will cost sh13 billion, while Masindi Stadium will cost sh20 billion.

He said the projects will be completed within six months, stressing that the facilities are required before June next year as part of Uganda’s preparations to host AFCON.

Ogwang added that the two training facilities will serve as support venues to Hoima City Stadium, which the country will use as a host venue, and which was commissioned by President Museveni last year.

Lieutenant Colonel Peter Seku Kidemuka, the project engineer of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), expressed gratitude to the President for entrusting them with the project and assured the public that the works will be completed on time.

Edward Isingoma, Hoima city mayor-elect, commended the government for the development projects in the region and pledged to work closely with the Ministry of Education and Sports to ensure quality standards and timely completion.