Museveni Launches CHAN 2024 Plans, Calls Tournament a Turning Point for East Africa

The President highlighted Uganda’s progress under his leadership, pointing to achievements in peace, education, and now sports development.

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H.E Museveni at the CHAN opening ceremony at Kololo Independence Grounds

President Yoweri Museveni officially launched the logo, jersey, and media platforms for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) during a ceremony at Kololo Independence Grounds yesterday. This marked a major step in Uganda’s preparations to co-host the tournament alongside Kenya and Tanzania.

Speaking at the event, President Museveni described CHAN as more than just a football competition. He called it “a powerful vehicle for boosting Uganda’s global image and opening up business opportunities.”

“Maama Janet and I launched the official logo, jersey, and media platforms for CHAN 2024. This tournament is more than sport, it helps promote our country and create new economic opportunities,” he said.

The President highlighted Uganda’s progress under his leadership, pointing to achievements in peace, education, and now sports development.

“Since coming to power, we’ve achieved peace and expanded education. Now we are building stadiums and supporting sports. CHAN has pushed us to act, and we welcome that challenge,” he added.

Museveni also stressed the importance of regional unity, saying the joint hosting with Kenya and Tanzania supports East African integration.

First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni, said CHAN 2024 offers a historic opportunity for the region.

“This tournament proves that football is more than just a game, it brings us together. CHAN gives us a chance to show that East Africa can successfully work as a team on big projects,” she said.

She also noted that the government’s investments in stadiums and infrastructure show a strong, long-term commitment to developing sports in Uganda.

President Museveni compared preparations for CHAN to past major events like the 2007 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) and the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) summit, which both led to major infrastructure improvements.

“The work we’re doing for CHAN lays the groundwork for even bigger events, like co-hosting the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in the future,” he said.

As Uganda prepares to welcome Africa’s best home-based football talent, the mood at Kololo was one of unity, ambition, and regional pride. With the branding now launched, attention is turning to final stadium work, logistics, and public mobilization.

CHAN 2024 is set to spotlight not just East African football, but the region’s growing ability to host world-class events.