Uganda has intensified its preparations to co-host the Africa Cup of Nations 2027, committing significant financial resources and policy measures aimed at delivering a successful continental tournament.

According to official government communication, Uganda has already paid USD 43 million to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) as part of its hosting commitment. In addition, Government has approved a comprehensive UGX 905 billion towards critical inter-sectoral and administrative requirements for AFCON 2027, reinforcing Uganda’s readiness for the continental showpiece.

The tournament, which Uganda will co-host alongside Kenya and Tanzania, is scheduled to run from June 19 to July 18, 2027. Authorities estimate that between 500,000 and 650,000 visitors could travel to Uganda during the event, potentially injecting at least USD 500 million into the local economy.

Infrastructure and Transport Upgrades

A substantial portion of the funding has been earmarked for infrastructure development. Government has allocated UGX 213.76 billion to upgrade key road networks, pedestrian walkways, and street lighting around Mandela National Stadium and Hoima City Stadium.

Additionally, UGX 184.9 billion has been set aside for the construction of a passenger terminal at Kabalega International Airport to enable international operations ahead of the tournament.

Further investment in Namboole Stadium will see an additional UGX 56.2 billion injected in the next financial year, bringing the total redevelopment cost to approximately UGX 248.6 billion.

Health Sector Strengthening

To meet CAF medical requirements, the government has committed UGX 91.05 billion toward upgrading key health facilities. These include Hoima Regional Referral Hospital, Masindi General Hospital, and Buseruka Health Centre III. Planned improvements focus on enhancing intensive care units and emergency response capacity.

Tourism and Hospitality Boost

In a move to support tourism and visitor accommodation, UGX 101.1 billion has been allocated through the Uganda Development Bank to finance hotel upgrades in Hoima and Masindi, as well as the construction of a new facility near Kabalega International Airport.

The government has also announced that visa fees will be waived for all visitors for at least three months around the tournament period. Officials are further exploring a joint “Pamoja Visa” arrangement with Kenya and Tanzania to ease regional travel.

Tournament Operations and Team Preparation

The Local Organising Committee (LOC) will receive UGX 109.9 billion to manage tournament operations, including security, media, branding, and fan engagement.

Meanwhile, the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has been allocated UGX 17.7 billion to upgrade Kadiba Stadium as a training facility, along with UGX 12.55 billion to prepare the national team, the Uganda Cranes.


Coordinated National Approach

Officials have emphasized that hosting AFCON 2027 requires a coordinated “whole-of-country” approach involving government institutions, private sector stakeholders, civil society, and citizens.

An Inter-Sectoral Steering Forum comprising more than 20 entities has been established to oversee preparations alongside the Local Organising Committee, ensuring alignment across all sectors.

What to Expect

All major infrastructure, including competition venues and training facilities, is expected to be completed by January 2027, several months ahead of kickoff.

Authorities say the investments are intended not only to ensure a successful tournament but also to leave a lasting legacy in infrastructure, tourism, and economic growth. However, the actual economic impact will depend on visitor turnout, execution efficiency, and broader market conditions.