Govt allocates Shs. 545 billion for AFCON Projects in Hoima and Masindi

By Ismael Kasooha

The Government has provided Shs 545.99 billion to upgrade health and sports training infrastructure in Hoima and Masindi as Uganda prepares to host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027 tournament.

“This figure does not include the USD 130 million (Shs 487 billion) invested in the construction of Hoima City Stadium,” Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja said while presiding over the groundbreaking ceremonies for health and sports facility upgrades in Hoima and Masindi recently.

The health facilities earmarked for major infrastructural upgrades, worth Shs 91 billion, include Hoima Regional Referral Hospital, Masindi General Hospital, and Buseruka Health Centre III, which will be upgraded to a Health Centre IV. The facility is located near Kabalega International Airport in Kabaale, Hoima.

The Prime Minister said the projects are intended to address the medical and training requirements associated with the upcoming tournament.

Another Shs 183.7 billion will be used to establish a passenger terminal at Kabalega International Airport and procure a bus for the facility. This is intended to get the airport open to commercial passenger traffic ahead of the continental tournament.

Hoteliers will receive Shs 101.1 billion to upgrade the standards and capacity of their facilities in anticipation of the expected influx of visitors to Hoima and Masindi during the tournament.

The upgrading of King George Memorial Stadium, Sir Tito Winyi Secondary School grounds, and Hoima Booma Playground will cost Shs 52.1 billion. A further Shs 106.4 billion will be spent on tarmacking roads around Hoima City Stadium, as well as improving water and electricity infrastructure.

An additional Shs 11.65 billion will be allocated to improve utility infrastructure in Hoima and Masindi towns.

The Prime Minister urged residents of Hoima and Masindi to take advantage of the opportunities presented by the tournament.

“Many of our brothers and sisters from various African countries and beyond will be staying in Hoima and Masindi during the tournament,” Nabbanja said. “They will need quality accommodation, food, and other services.”

The groundbreaking ceremonies were attended by Hon. Peter Ogwang, the Minister of State for Sports; Hon. Dr. Charles Ayume, the Minister of State for Health; Hon. Mary Mugasa, the Minister of State for Bunyoro Affairs; and other government officials.