FIFA Certifies Nakivubo Stadium To Host International Matches After Turf Approval

Nakivubo War Memorial Stadium, now known as Hamz Stadium, has officially been cleared to host both local and international football events. FIFA granted certification to the stadium’s newly laid artificial turf under its prestigious “FIFA Quality Programme for Football Turf” standards.

The announcement came on Monday, October 7, as businessman Hamis Kiggundu, widely known as Ham, shared the news of the stadium’s readiness to host top-tier football competitions. The approval follows the successful installation of the Duofilament Mono turf, ensuring that the facility is now fit for high-caliber matches.

The cutting-edge artificial turf was installed by Nurteks Hali San.ve Tic. A.S, a global leader in artificial sports surfaces, and received FIFA approval on October 4, 2024, further enhancing Uganda’s football infrastructure.

Following extensive testing and inspection, FIFA awarded Hamz Stadium turf a clean bill of health by FIFA, with the certification valid from October 4, 2024, to October 3, 2027.

“FIFA is pleased to confirm that the football turf system Duofilament Mono has been installed by Nurteks Hali San.ve Tic. A.S. at Hamz Stadium Nakivubo Memorial – Hamz Stadium Nakivubo War Memorial – Kampala (Uganda). The installation has been tested and certified to the “FIFA QUALITY PROGRAMME FOR FOOTBALL TURF – FIFA QUALITY” standard,” reads a certificate signed off by FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Monday.

The achievement by Ham to secure the FIFA Certificate is not only a boost for Hamz Stadium Nakivubo but also Uganda’s standing in the global football arena as FIFA’s endorsement to ensure that the facility meets international standards enhances its prospects as a venue for both domestic and international events.

The certified turf at Hamz Stadium Nakivubo Memorial is set to host a variety of football matches, creating opportunities for local talent to play on FIFA-approved grounds while attracting international teams to Kampala.

At least three Uganda Premier League clubs had already applied to use the stadium as their home ground in the 2024/25 UPL season and the FIFA certification comes at the right time when the league is just four match days underway.

With the new certification, football fans can expect improved playing conditions for players, ensuring high-quality matches in the years to come.