Namboole Stadium, commonly known as Nelson Mandela National Stadium, stands as a testament to Uganda’s sports history and cultural evolution. Located in Kampala, this iconic venue faced a ban in 2020 from hosting international matches due to substandard conditions, and in due course, Uganda Cranes was forced to play most of its games abroad, for instance the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier game against Tanzania, which was played in Egypt.
Currently, the stadium has transitioned from a troubled beginning to becoming a recognized continental hub for sports after its full renovation.
Today, Namboole Stadium is celebrated as one of East Africa’s prominent sports venues; thus, its evolution reflects the government’s efforts into investing in transforming a struggling facility into a regional asset and sports infrastructure.
Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa reflected on the challenging period and how the country transformed the stadium to be internationally recognized.
“I remember how the public criticized the government when the Cranes played in Egypt, but now we’re hosting other nations that lack the facilities we have,” Tayebwa said.
He highlighted Uganda’s current role as a continental sports hub, showcasing its ability to support neighboring countries.
“Namboole is not only hosting Uganda’s AFCON qualifiers but also matches for nations like Kenya and Zimbabwe, whose home stadiums do not meet international standards,” Tayebwa said.
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Tayebwa appreciated President Yoweri Museveni for his leadership, the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Janet Museveni, and the State Minister for Sports, Peter Ogwang, for their efforts in revitalizing the country’s sports infrastructure and putting Uganda at the top.
Tayebwa commended the UDPF Engineers Brigade for the great work done.
“I cannot thank UPDF Engineers Brigade enough for the great work done,” he said.
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As Uganda is set to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations alongside Kenya and Tanzania and the African Nations Championship (CHAN) games come 2025, Tayebwa emphasized the importance of continued development in sports infrastructure.
