First Lady Janet Museveni confirms Uganda’s readiness to host CHAN 2024

Uganda’s First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Janet K. Museveni, has reaffirmed the country’s full preparedness to co-host the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), expressing confidence that the tournament will leave a lasting impression across the continent.

Speaking at the official launch of CHAN 2024 on Friday at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds in Kampala, an event presided over by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, Mrs. Museveni emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to delivering a successful and secure tournament.

"I assure you that the government is ready to co-host a memorable CHAN 2024—one that will remain in the hearts of all who participate," she said. "Together with the Local Organising Committee and other government agencies, we are determined to deliver a safe and well-managed championship for all Ugandans and international visitors."

The First Lady encouraged Ugandans and East Africans to embrace the tournament as a platform for regional unity and development.

"Sports, especially football, bring immense joy and foster bonds that transcend social divides. Co-hosting CHAN 2024 with our sister nations Kenya and Tanzania reflects the power of sport to unite us as one people—Pamoja," she added.

Uganda will host Group C matches at Mandela National Stadium in Namboole, welcoming teams from South Africa, Niger, Algeria, and Guinea.

“I extend a warm welcome to our brothers and sisters from Algeria, Niger, Guinea, and South Africa. Uganda is your home away from home,” Mrs. Museveni said. She also praised President Museveni for his steadfast commitment to regional integration through sport, noting his role in rallying government support behind the Pamoja bid.

She further commended the Local Organising Committee for their tireless efforts in preparing for the tournament and laying groundwork for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which Uganda will also co-host.

Minister of State for Sports, Peter Ogwang, confirmed that all training facilities have been upgraded to Confederation of African Football (CAF) standards. These include FUFA Stadium Kadiba, Mutesa II Stadium Wankulukuku, and Kyambogo Sports Grounds.

“These facilities are ready, and so are the Uganda Cranes. Let’s fill Namboole Stadium and give our boys the support they deserve,” Ogwang urged.

FUFA President Moses Magogo echoed the praise for President Museveni, thanking him for his unwavering support since the inception of the CHAN and AFCON hosting vision.

“You’ve never tired of this dream, and we are deeply grateful for your continued encouragement in bringing it to life,” Magogo said.

CHAN 2024 kicks off on August 2 at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, where the host nation will face Burkina Faso. Matches will be held across Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda, with Kenya’s Kasarani Stadium and Zanzibar’s Amani Stadium among the designated venues.