NCS seeks UGX 379billion for AFCON 2027 preparations
Uganda, alongside Kenya and Tanzania, was confirmed as a co-host for the 2027 AFCON by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in September 2023. The country is now expected to make significant upgrades to its sports infrastructure.
The National Council of Sports (NCS) has requested UGX 379 billion to facilitate Uganda’s preparations as a co-host of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and an additional UGX 5.3 billion for the Uganda Cranes’ participation in key international tournaments.
The funds are expected to support critical infrastructure upgrades, logistics, and other essential preparations to ensure Uganda meets international hosting standards.
The request was tabled on January 24, 2025, by James Kubeketerya, Chairperson of Parliament’s Education and Sports Committee, as he presented the committee’s report on the 2025/26 Budget Framework Paper to the Budget Committee.
“The committee recommends that the Ministry of Finance allocate UGX 379 billion for AFCON preparations and UGX 5.3 billion for the national team’s participation in major international tournaments,” Kubeketerya stated.
Uganda, alongside Kenya and Tanzania, was confirmed as a co-host for the 2027 AFCON by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in September 2023. The country is now expected to make significant upgrades to its sports infrastructure.
Beyond AFCON preparations, the committee urged the Ministry of Finance to allocate additional funds for various sports projects, including:
- UGX 26 billion for the refurbishment of national stadiums.
- UGX 3.5 billion to operationalize the National Anti-Doping Organization.
- UGX 10 billion for rewarding outstanding athletes and upgrading Kitante Golf Course to international standards.
- UGX 39 billion (to be disbursed in phases) for the completion of Phillip Omondi Stadium.
These recommendations follow concerns raised in the Auditor General’s 2023/24 report, which pointed out the government’s failure to fully operationalize the National Recognition and Reward Scheme under the National Sports Act Cap 151.
With AFCON 2027 fast approaching, Uganda faces mounting pressure to accelerate its preparations and secure the necessary funding to deliver a successful tournament.
