Africa-Press – Uganda. Parliament has raised fresh concerns about Uganda’s preparedness to host two major continental football tournaments—African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 and the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027—with legislators questioning the government’s commitment to effective promotion and infrastructure readiness.
Speaker of Parliament Anita Among has tasked the Ministry of Education and Sports to present a comprehensive report detailing the country’s progress and plans for both tournaments.
The directive follows a heated debate in Parliament, where lawmakers expressed concern that key stakeholders have not prioritized advertising and mobilization for CHAN 2024, scheduled to kick off on August 2.
“It’s surprising that the key stakeholders haven’t prioritized advertisement of CHAN,” said Medard Lubega Ssegona, Member of Parliament for Busiro East.
He was joined by Bugiri Municipality MP Asuman Basalirwa in questioning the visibility of the tournament and Uganda’s strategic positioning ahead of the event.
In response, Minister of State for Sports Peter Ogwang explained that the muted publicity stems from terms agreed upon between the host countries—Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania—and the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
“The lack of enough advertisement is based on the agreement signed by the hosting countries and CAF,” Ogwang said.
He added that despite the constraints, the government had begun mobilizing internal resources to enhance tournament visibility in the final stretch before kickoff.
However, Ssegona pressed further, questioning the wisdom behind signing an agreement that limits Uganda’s ability to promote an event of such national significance.
“Why did Uganda sign an agreement that blocks Uganda from advertising internally?” he asked.
While concerns around publicity persist, Minister Ogwang assured Parliament that Uganda has made strides in its preparations.
He pointed to the renovation of Mandela National Stadium in Namboole, now fully upgraded to meet CAF standards, as a milestone achievement.
The government has also committed Shs113 billion (about $30 million) towards CHAN preparations and is investing in broader infrastructure, including roadworks and hospitality facilities.
Yet challenges remain. Uganda is facing a shortfall of an estimated 10,000 hotel rooms—an issue that could affect the country’s ability to host the expected influx of athletes, officials, and fans.
As the clock ticks down to CHAN 2024 and planning continues for Afcon 2027, Parliament is pushing for transparency and urgency.
Speaker Among emphasized the need for better coordination, promotion, and infrastructure development to ensure Uganda not only meets Caf standards but also capitalizes on the global spotlight.
With proper planning, Uganda has the opportunity to boost tourism, stimulate local economies, and elevate its profile as a capable host of international sporting events.
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