CAF applauds Uganda's CHAN 2025 preparations amid tight deadlines

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) delegation, currently conducting an inspection tour for the 2025 CHAN tournament, has expressed satisfaction with Uganda's progress, despite tight deadlines.

With the tournament rescheduled from February to August this year, Uganda—alongside co-hosts Kenya and Tanzania—is racing against time to finalize preparations for the major continental event. All critical areas must be completed by the June 30 deadline.

The playing surface at Kyambogo University training ground

The 20-member CAF inspection team, led by Serge Assume, began their assessment on Wednesday morning at the iconic Namboole Stadium, after arriving in the country on Tuesday night.

Namboole Stadium nears readiness

Namboole Stadium and its annex facilities received strong commendations from the CAF inspectors, who deemed them largely ready to host the tournament. Only “very minimal changes” are required, primarily concerning access and production arrangements for VIP and VVIP guests.

Comprehensive inspections across key facilities

The delegation, accompanied by various Local Organizing Committee (LOC) members, carried out comprehensive inspections across a wide range of facilities. This included stadiums, training pitches, accommodations, and essential medical infrastructure.

At Mulago National Referral Hospital, the health committee and CAF inspectors conducted a thorough evaluation to ensure it meets all technical and infrastructural requirements to support the tournament.

The dressing rooms at Wankulukuku Stadium after renovation work

For hospitality and accommodation, the team inspected several key hotels designated for players and CAF officials. These included Serena Hotel, Sheraton Hotel, Cranes Paradise Hotel, and Four Points Hotel. Discussions for a fifth official hotel are reportedly in advanced stages, with a final inspection pending.

Training facilities: progress made

The identified training facilities include Kampala International School Uganda (KISU), Kyambogo, Wankulukuku, and Kadiba. While commending Uganda's overall efforts, the CAF delegation highlighted that Kyambogo and Wankulukuku stadiums still require further work.

At the Kyambogo training facility, the playing surface is in good condition, but surrounding areas need continued maintenance.

Floodlights are scheduled for testing, and the access road to the changing rooms requires clearing and improvement. The UPDF Civil Engineers Brigade has been assigned to harmonize the power supply and ensure the water irrigation system is fully operational.

Wankulukuku Stadium—renowned for having one of the best playing surfaces among local grounds—is slated for floodlight installation.

Bernard Ogwel, Chairperson of the Finance Committee for the LOC and also the General Secretary of the National Council of Sports (NCS), confirmed that the procurement process is underway with the contractor through the UPDF Civil Engineers Brigade.

“We have already undertaken the procurement procedures, and the floodlights are expected to arrive in the country within the next two weeks. Therefore, construction of the floodlight mast bases will commence shortly,” Ogwel stated, expressing confidence in meeting the set deadline.