Uganda’s Hamz Stadium-Nakivubo Breaks New Ground with CAF Nod, Redefining African Football Ambitions

In a move that cements its status as a beacon of African sports excellence, Hamz Stadium-Nakivubo has been granted the prestigious green light by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to host some of the continent’s most coveted football tournaments. This landmark decision not only underscores Uganda’s rising influence in African football but also signals a new era of world-class sporting infrastructure on the continent.

Since its grand unveiling on June 1, 2024, the stadium has become a symbol of Uganda’s ambition, blending cutting-edge design with unmatched functionality. With CAF’s approval, Hamz Stadium-Nakivubo is now set to welcome qualifiers and finals for the Women’s African Cup of Nations (WAFCON), men’s U17, U20, and U23 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), as well as preliminary rounds of the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup. CAF officials lauded the facility for its transformative impact on African football, calling it a “game-changer” for the continent’s competitive landscape.

The CAF accreditation follows a string of international accolades that have put Hamz Stadium on the global map. In October 2024, FIFA President Gianni Infantino personally certified the stadium’s turf, praising its quality and innovation. Earlier this year, the venue earned a nomination for a prestigious Global Award, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the world’s most iconic sports arenas.

Rogers Mulindwa, Chairman of the Hamz Stadium Management Committee, hailed the achievement as a collective victory for Uganda. “This is more than just a stadium—it’s a testament to what we can achieve when we dream big and work together,” he said. Mulindwa extended gratitude to President Yoweri Museveni, Minister of Education and Sports Janet Kataaha Museveni, State Minister for Sports Peter Ogwang, and FUFA President Moses Magogo for their visionary leadership and unwavering support.

“Hamz Stadium is not just a venue; it’s a platform for Africa’s brightest talents to shine,” Mulindwa added. “We are ready to host the continent’s best and showcase Uganda’s ability to deliver excellence on the global stage.”

Beyond the pitch, the CAF approval is expected to ripple across Uganda’s economy, with a surge in tourism, international investments, and global media attention. The stadium’s state-of-the-art facilities, combined with its strategic location in Kampala, position it as a hub for sports, culture, and entertainment.

As Uganda prepares to welcome Africa’s football elite, Hamz Stadium-Nakivubo stands as a proud emblem of the nation’s progress and a shining example of what Africa can achieve when ambition meets opportunity. This is not just a win for Uganda—it’s a triumph for African football and a bold step toward a brighter future for the continent’s sporting aspirations.