By:  Jotham Alinaitwe

HOIMA

Janipher Namuyangu, the Minister of State for Bunyoro Affairs, has urged the people of Bunyoro to take advantage of the business opportunities that are emerging from the ongoing construction of the Hoima Stadium. The stadium, which is set to host soccer matches and athletics events, is part of Uganda’s preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). It is one of three venues in Uganda chosen to be part of the highly anticipated continental tournament.

With a proposed seating capacity of 20,000, Hoima Stadium is expected to be a major asset for the region, attracting both local and international visitors. Minister Namuyangu encouraged local businesses to position themselves strategically to benefit from the economic opportunities generated by the stadium’s construction and the influx of visitors during AFCON.

“Such a project brings not only growth but also the chance to build long-term business relationships. The people of Bunyoro should be ready to seize the opportunities that come with such developments,” said Namuyangu.

The construction of the stadium, located in Kyarwiru Cell in Hoima East Division of Hoima City, is progressing steadily, currently at 22% completion. The Government of Uganda signed a contract with M/S SUMMA, a Turkish construction company, in June of last year. According to Murat Altun, the Project Manager from M/S SUMMA, the company has employed over 1,000 workers, with 75% of them being Ugandans.

“Right now, we are focusing on the pavilion and underground structures,” Altun explained during a recent site tour. “We are on track to meet the December 2025 deadline for completion.”

The construction of Hoima Stadium is expected to be completed within 18 months, with the final completion date set for December 2025. The stadium will be one of the key facilities for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, a tournament that will be jointly hosted by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania.

Uthman Kadir Mugisa, the Hoima LC V Chairperson, also commended the government, particularly President Yoweri Museveni, for fulfilling his pledges and supporting the region’s development. He noted that the stadium would provide significant benefits to Hoima, generating revenue and stimulating local development.

“This stadium will bring a lot of money to the area, and more importantly, it will be a catalyst for other forms of development in the community,” said Mugisa. “We are grateful for the government’s efforts and the president’s commitment to uplifting the people of Hoima.”

Hoima City Mayor Brian Kaboyo echoed these sentiments, calling on residents to prepare for the economic opportunities that will arise from the stadium’s construction. He emphasized the need for local businesses to take proactive steps in ensuring they can capitalize on the new developments.

“This is a transformative project for Hoima and the entire Bunyoro region,” Kaboyo said. “We urge our people to be ready to seize the many opportunities it will bring, not only during AFCON but in the years to come.”

As construction continues, the Hoima Stadium project promises to play a vital role in the region’s growth, serving as a key venue for major sporting events and a hub for economic activity in the heart of Uganda.

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