Ugandan MP Explains What Will Define AFCON 2027 Success Beyond Stadiums

Nansana Municipality MP and Shadow Minister for Sports, Zambaali Bulasio Mukasa, has called on the government to prioritize lasting infrastructure, robust institutions, and youth engagement as the true benchmarks for Uganda's success in co-hosting the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

During a parliamentary session on Tuesday, chaired by Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, Mukasa argued that the tournament's real value lies in its potential to build a sustainable sports ecosystem for the nation.

"The success of Uganda’s AFCON 2027 dream should be measured by the sports infrastructure across the country, strengthened institutions, increased youth participation in sports, and sustainable sports development programmes," Mukasa stated before Parliament as quoted by Nile Post.

Uganda, alongside co-hosts Kenya and Tanzania, has accelerated infrastructure development for the "Pamoja" AFCON.

Key projects include the completion of the 20,000-seat Hoima City Stadium, the redevelopment of Akii-Bua Stadium in Lira, and a significant investment in renovating Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.

However, the legislator cautioned against a narrow focus on major stadiums at the expense of community-level facilities, which are crucial for nurturing talent from the ground up.

He urged the government to leverage the AFCON preparations to revitalise district and school sports competitions, fortify national sports federations, and establish programmes that will engage youth long after the final whistle.

"We must ensure that AFCON leaves behind more than just stadiums," Zambaali emphasised. "It should leave us with institutions that nurture talent, facilities in every region, and programmes that give our youth a chance to participate and benefit from sports."

He added that greater funding for grassroots development would not only help Uganda produce more competitive national teams but also create vital employment and income opportunities for young people.

Parliament is currently scrutinising the government's preparations for the continental tournament, which is seen as a major opportunity for the three East African nations to enhance their sporting infrastructure and foster regional cooperation.