Kampala, Uganda – A New Era for Ugandan Football Begins!
Uganda has reached an unprecedented milestone in its football history as Hamz Stadium Nakivubo War Memorial earns CAF Category 2 Stadium status, officially joining the ranks of Africa’s premier football venues. This prestigious recognition from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) means that the newly revamped stadium is now authorized to host some of the biggest continental tournaments, putting Uganda in the spotlight as a top-tier footballing nation.
This development, coming just nine months after the stadium’s grand reopening on June 1, 2024, is a clear testament to the country’s growing influence in the world of football and the unwavering commitment to building world-class sports infrastructure.
Hamz Stadium Nakivubo: A Game-Changer for Ugandan & African Football
After a rigorous CAF inspection in November 2024, Hamz Stadium met the highest international standards, earning it the authority to host CAF and FIFA-sanctioned tournaments. This is a monumental victory for Ugandan football, as it means the country can now welcome some of the most prestigious competitions on the continent.
The competitions to be hosted at Hamz Stadium Nakivubo include:
✅ Women’s African Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Qualifiers
✅ Men’s U17, U20, and U23 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) Qualifiers & Final Tournaments
✅ Men’s Champions League Preliminary Rounds
✅ Men’s Confederation Cup Preliminary Rounds
This milestone isn’t just about hosting matches—it’s about elevating Ugandan football to a whole new level. The country now has a certified venue capable of attracting elite African teams, offering fans an opportunity to experience world-class football action firsthand.
CAF’s Tournaments and Events Director, Samson Adamu, praised Hamz Stadium Nakivubo for setting a new standard in Ugandan football infrastructure, emphasizing its role in enhancing both player experience and fan engagement.
FIFA Recognition: A Global Stamp of Approval
The journey of Hamz Stadium Nakivubo took yet another giant leap forward when FIFA President Gianni Infantino personally certified the stadium’s playing turf on October 7, 2024. This certification further strengthens its global standing and cements its place among the world’s top football venues.
Adding to this incredible achievement, Hamz Stadium was nominated for the Global Awards as one of the best stadiums in the world. This nomination is a true reflection of the facility’s state-of-the-art infrastructure, world-class playing surface, and commitment to delivering an unparalleled football experience.
A Nation United: Leadership & Football Community Celebrate the Triumph
Behind every great achievement is strong leadership and collective effort, and the success of Hamz Stadium Nakivubo is no different. The stadium’s management has expressed immense gratitude to key figures who have been instrumental in this journey, including:
President Yoweri Museveni – For his commitment to sports development in Uganda.
Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Kataha Museveni – For her unwavering support in advancing Uganda’s sports sector.
State Minister for Sports, Hon. Peter Ogwang – For playing a key role in sports infrastructure development.
FUFA President, Eng. Moses Magogo – For his efforts in growing Ugandan football on the international stage.
In a powerful statement, Rogers Mulindwa, Chairman of the Management Committee of Hamz Stadium Nakivubo, reaffirmed the stadium’s commitment:
“We are dedicated to serving Ugandans and the world at large with the highest levels of professionalism, ensuring that our stadium remains a beacon of football excellence in Africa.”
The Future Looks Bright: Uganda Prepares for a Football Revolution
With CAF and FIFA approvals in the bag, Hamz Stadium Nakivubo is now set to host elite football teams, passionate fans, and international media. This recognition is more than just a badge of honor, it represents Uganda’s entry into the highest levels of African and global football.
For Ugandan football fans, this means witnessing top-tier matches, experiencing world-class football culture, and seeing their homegrown talent compete at the highest levels—all on home soil!
As preparations begin for the CAF and FIFA-sanctioned competitions, Uganda is poised to become a true football hub in Africa. The transformation of Hamz Stadium Nakivubo is not just a victory for sports infrastructure, it’s a defining moment for Uganda’s sporting legacy.
From a historic reopening to earning CAF Category 2 status, FIFA certification, and a Global Awards nomination, Hamz Stadium Nakivubo is on a meteoric rise. As it gears up to host its first major international tournaments, the stadium is set to redefine Uganda’s football landscape and inspire a new generation of football stars and fans.
Get ready, Uganda! The world is coming to Hamz Stadium Nakivubo, and history is about to be made!
Stay tuned for more updates on upcoming matches and events at Hamz Stadium Nakivubo. The best is yet to come!
