The Government has officially handed over key sports facilities in Northern Uganda to the Uganda People’s Defence Forces Engineering Brigade for construction and upgrading ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The handover was conducted on behalf of Janet Museveni, the Minister of Education and Sports, involving Pece Stadium, Gulu University grounds, and Lira University grounds.
The facilities are expected to be transformed into modern training venues that will support Uganda’s preparations and hosting responsibilities for AFCON 2027.
Officials said the project forms part of broader government efforts to improve sports infrastructure across the country and position Uganda to successfully co-host the continental tournament alongside regional partners.
Speaking during the handover, leaders praised the National Resistance Movement government for prioritizing sports development and investing in modern facilities aimed at nurturing talent and expanding opportunities for athletes.
The UPDF Engineering Brigade is expected to commence construction and renovation works immediately, with upgrades targeting international standards required for AFCON training venues.
Sports stakeholders have welcomed the development, saying improved infrastructure in Northern Uganda will not only support the tournament but also boost local sports development, tourism, and economic activity in the region.
Uganda is jointly preparing to host AFCON 2027 with Kenya and Tanzania in what is expected to be one of the region’s largest sporting events.
