Namboole Stadium stands to get roof ahead of AFCON 2027

The government has mooted fresh plans to build roofs over Namboole Stadium stands as part of the ongoing refurbishment of the country's only international football facility ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations in East Africa.

Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania won the hosting right to the biennial even's 2027 edition and Sports minister Peter Ogwang has called for unity and support to complete the grand turnaround of Namboole.

The urgency of the matter was underscored by a downpour experienced earlier on Wednesday, serving as a reminder of the unpredictable weather conditions that could potentially disrupt sporting events.

"You saw this morning we had a downpour. Now that we have seats, it's important that we cover the stadium," Ogwang said.

Namboole has been under renovation for two years and is yet to be commissioned officially for international matches.

A total of Shs97 billion has been spent on the stadium in what is phase 1 of the renovation.

One of the main focuses of the project is to provide adequate covering for stadiums, ensuring that spectators are shielded from the sun and rain and can enjoy the matches comfortably.

Ogwang said it is crucial not only for the success of AFCON 2027 but also for enhancing the overall spectator experience in sports events held across the country.

"We need to cover the stadium so that whoever is seated is comfortable without being interfered with rain," he said.

The minister made the remarks as Namboole hosted test matches which saw huge crowds flock to the stadium whose gets were only opened to the public for the first time in four years.

The Confederation of African Football Federation is yet to approve the stadium for international matches although the government is working day and night to have it fit for AFCON 2027.