UBC seeks Shs 32 billion to broadcast AFCON 2027

The request was presented to Parliament’s ICT Committee by the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance during the FY 2026/27 ministerial policy statement meeting on Thursday.

Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC) is seeking Shs 32 billion to cover the costs of broadcasting the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027, which will be co-hosted by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania.

The request was presented to Parliament’s ICT Committee by the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance during the FY 2026/27 ministerial policy statement meeting on Thursday.

Amina Zawedde, the Ministry's Permanent Secretary told members that the funds will be used to procure equipment, secure broadcasting rights, and cover production costs for both television and radio.

“This money is needed for procurement of equipment, securing broadcasting rights, production for both TV and radio, and promotions across eleven stations.”

According to the PS UBC expects to generate Shs 2 billion in revenues from the tournament.

While some MPs support the funding request, the committee chairman, Hon Tonny Ayoo called for more detailed research on the expected revenue, as the Shs 2 billion figure was only based on the revenue from last year’s CHAN Tournament.

Meanwhile, the MPs also questioned the Shs 100 billion debt owed by UBC, with concerns raised about the current repayment arrangements.

Zawedde confirmed that the Ministry had written to the Ministry of Finance requesting additional funds to help clear these arrears and secure the necessary provisions for the event.