Akii-Bua stadium plan is underway
Size was an issue of contention as preparations for the construction of Uganda’s first modern upcountry stadium got underway on Saturday.
By James Bakama in Lira
Size was an issue of contention as preparations for the construction of Uganda’s first modern upcountry stadium got underway on Saturday.
The stadium that will be in Lira, has some authorities in for a facility as big as the 40,202 seater Namboole while others want it smaller.
The sports complex that will be called the John Akii-Bua Memorial stadium will be located near Lira airstrip.
President Yoweri Museveni in 2010 directed that preparations start.
Line minister Jessica Alupo, citing a growing population and the region’s sports potential, leads those in for a big facility.
Lira CAO Eriab Byamungu not only shares a similar view, but also wants a state-of-the-art facility.
Other authorities however advised that the district considers a smaller and manageable facility.
Listing the challenges of managing a big stadium, Namboole managing director Jamil Sewanyana said the region could benefi t more with a smaller well maintained stadium.
Citing research, Sewanyana explained that for a 40,000 seater stadium to break even it must stage at least one event a month with a $30 per
person entry fee.
UOC vice president Ambrose Tashobya, who doubles as Sustainable Stadiums for Africa board member, was also in for a smaller facility.
“There will be more talent churned out with a stadium that also has many other training facilities within the complex. The idea is having as many youngsters as possible active on a daily basis.”
Sh1b was allocated to the project this fi nancial year for initial works that include opening of boundaries.
Sports ministry engineer Emmanuel Tinkasimire explained that preparations are also on to start on designs and also get a contractor.
Namboole stadium engineer Wang Zoishui was impressed by the location of the facility and also promised support where necessary.
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