Final Renovation Phase Begins at Namboole Stadium

Final Renovation Phase Begins at Namboole Stadium

Works have entered a critical stage at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, with major structural upgrades underway to meet Caf standards as Uganda intensifies preparations for Afcon 2027.

The final phase of renovation works at Mandela National Stadium Namboole has officially begun, with contractors now reworking key sections of the facility ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) 2027.

The stadium manager, Jamil Ssewanyana, confirmed on Thursday that major adjustments are underway to align the facility with requirements set by the Confederation of African Football (Caf).

“We have begun renovation works. The contractor is decommissioning some of the old installations such as wire cables and seats as we prepare for new structures,” Ssewanyana said.

He added that minor demolitions are also being carried out to meet Caf standards for hosting international matches.

One of the key changes involves relocating dressing rooms from the eastern to the western side of the stadium, alongside a complete redesign of media facilities.

Ssewanyana said the new media tribune design has already been completed and will be integrated into the main stand currently occupied by VIP sections.

The upgraded media centre will accommodate more than 100 journalists, in line with CAF requirements.

“The design for the media tribune is already done. We are also putting up a modern media centre that can host over 100 journalists,” he said.

The redevelopment is designed to transform Namboole into a multi-level structure rather than relying on full demolition. The redesigned stand will rise vertically into up to five levels, each serving specific functions.

“The first level will host VIP and VVIP lounges. The second will accommodate the media centre, media tribune, and presidential and executive lounges. The third level will house the venue operations centre,” Ssewanyana explained.

Security, accessibility, and logistics upgrades are also part of the plan. A dedicated entry point for journalists is being constructed, along with parking facilities for media personnel and persons with disabilities.

CAF’s recent inspection report flagged several deficiencies at the stadium, including inadequate dressing rooms, insufficient media facilities, and structural limitations on the eastern stand.

The continental body has set strict timelines, requiring at least 50 percent of structural upgrades to be completed before its next inspection in August 2026.

It has also insisted on all-seater arrangements, improved floodlighting, upgraded roofing, and expanded capacity of at least 45,000 seats.

The government recently handed over Namboole to the Uganda People’s Defence Forces to oversee a $60 million (about Shs220 billion) comprehensive overhaul aimed at accelerating works and ensuring compliance with Caf deadlines.

The latest phase marks a crucial step in Uganda’s Afcon 2027 preparations, with pressure mounting to deliver a fully compliant stadium within the required timeframe.