Uganda Athletics Forced to Find Alternative Venue For Amid Mandela Stadium Renovations

Uganda Athletics (UA) has shifted its remaining 2026 track and field events to Uganda Christian University (UCU) in Mukono due to ongoing renovation work at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.

The decision is intended to provide athletes with consistent competitive opportunities as they gear up for major international championships scheduled for later this year.

The first event to be held at the new venue will be the annual Akii-Bua Memorial Meet on June 13. This competition is expected to draw many of Uganda's top athletes and rising stars who are looking to sharpen their form ahead of international duties.

Despite the change of venue, UA officials are confident that athletes will have adequate competition for the remainder of the season.

A significant number of elite and junior athletes have already qualified for key events, including the Commonwealth Games (July 23 - August 2) and the World Athletics U-20 Championships in Oregon (August 5 - 9).

Namayo Mawerere, the UA Publicity Secretary, stated that the federation had successfully held several qualifying events before the move, allowing many athletes to meet the required standards.

However, he pointed out that the qualification window for the World U-20 Championships is still open, and the closure of Namboole could impact those still hoping to qualify or improve their times.

Mawerere also acknowledged the technical differences between the two venues, noting that UCU does not have a tartan track like Namboole.

"There is a difference between a tartan track and a cinder track, so you cannot directly compare performances," he explained, as quoted by New Vision. "A tartan surface is generally faster, but UCU remains the second-best option available to us at the moment."

With the qualification period for the U-20 World Championships closing in July, the relocation presents a temporary hurdle for athletes still chasing qualifying standards.

Nevertheless, officials believe the move to UCU will ensure continuity in both competition and preparation as Uganda's athletes finalise their build-up for the Commonwealth Games and the World U-20 Championships.