Race to 2027: Uganda mobilises multi-sector plan for AFCON

Uganda has unveiled an expansive, multi-sector strategy backed by an additional Shs 905 billion to accelerate preparations for co-hosting the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON 2027, underscoring both the scale of ambition and the complexity of delivering one of Africa’s biggest sporting spectacles.

In a detailed press briefing on Tuesday, at the Uganda Media Centre in Kampala, the Local Organising Committee (LOC) outlined a “whole-of-country approach” that brings together government ministries, private sector players, and civil society in a coordinated push to meet tight infrastructure and operational deadlines ahead of the June–July 2027 tournament.

Race against time on infrastructure

At the core of Uganda’s readiness plan is the completion of key competition infrastructure, notably Mandela National Stadium and the under-construction Hoima City Stadium, alongside eight training facilities by January 2027.

This leaves less than a year for completion, placing pressure on implementing agencies to deliver within strict timelines.

The government has earmarked Shs 213.76 billion for road upgrades around stadiums and key routes, while additional investments target rail, water, electricity, and ICT infrastructure, all critical to meeting Confederation of African Football (CAF) standards.

Economic windfall or optimistic projection?

Officials project that between 500,000 and 650,000 visitors could travel to Uganda during the tournament. With each visitor estimated to spend at least $1,000, the LOC is projecting a minimum injection of $500 million into the economy.

While the figures point to significant tourism and hospitality gains, analysts note that such projections depend heavily on execution, including visa facilitation, accommodation capacity, and security.

To support this, government has committed Shs 101.1 billion to upgrade hotels in Hoima and Masindi through a credit facility managed by the Uganda Development Bank, alongside plans to operationalise Kabalega International Airport with a new passenger terminal.

Strategic policy shifts to boost inflow

In a notable policy move, Uganda will waive visa fees for all visitors for a three-month window around the tournament. Authorities are also exploring a joint “PAMOJA visa” with Kenya and Tanzania to ease cross-border movement, a step that could significantly enhance regional tourism flows.

Such measures reflect lessons drawn from previous tournaments, including CHAN 2024, which officials say provided critical operational experience.

Beyond football: legacy investments

A significant portion of funding is being directed toward long-term national assets. Health facilities in Hoima, Masindi, and Buseruka will be upgraded to handle intensive care and emergency services, while investments in sanitation, meteorology, and electricity aim to leave a lasting development footprint.

Similarly, Shs 37.85 billion has been allocated to market “Destination Uganda,” positioning the country to leverage global visibility beyond the tournament period.

Coordination remains the biggest test

The Inter-Sectoral Steering Forum, bringing together over 20 entities, is central to coordinating these efforts. However, the scale of actors involved also raises risks of bureaucratic delays, duplication, and inefficiencies.

The LOC acknowledged that no single institution can deliver the tournament alone, emphasizing the need for synchronized implementation across sectors.

High stakes for Uganda’s global image

With co-hosts Kenya and Tanzania also racing to prepare, Uganda’s performance will shape its regional and international reputation.

Successful delivery could boost investor confidence, tourism, and sports development. Conversely, delays or substandard infrastructure could expose the country to reputational risks on a continental stage.

For now, the government’s heavy financial commitment and policy shifts signal strong intent. The real test, however, lies in execution, and whether Uganda can translate planning into timely, high-quality delivery before the 2027 kickoff.