President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni is set to officially inaugurate Nakivubo Stadium by the end of November 2023, according to an announcement made during a meeting between Ugandan billionaire Hamis Kiggundu and the president on November 7, 2023.
Nakivubo Stadium, located in the Central Business District of Kampala, Uganda, spans 12.455 acres (50,400 m2). Originally established in 1926 on land donated by the Kabaka of Buganda, the stadium has a rich history, hosting its inaugural match on April 1, 1926, featuring the Uganda National Team and the Under-18 National Team of Uganda.
In 1954, the stadium underwent significant modernization sponsored by the British colonial government, dedicated to Ugandans who lost their lives during the Second World War. The modernization was facilitated by the “Nakivubo War Memorial Act” passed by the Parliament of Uganda.
In 2015, President Museveni initiated a joint venture with Hamis Kiggundu to revamp Nakivubo Stadium into a modern sports facility. The redevelopment, estimated at US$200 million, began in June 2017. It involved the demolition of outdated structures, the construction of new facilities, including retail shops along the outer walls, and an increase in seating capacity from 21,000 to 35,000.
As of November 2023, the reconstruction is in its final stages, and the refurbished stadium is poised to open at the end of the month. The upgraded facility will host various sports, including football, netball, basketball, and indoor games, along with a 72-room sports hostel.
