East Africa harbors the dream of hosting the coveted Africa Cup of Nations tournament in 2027 and the efforts put in to make sure this becomes a reality are evident.
With expression of interest done and guarantees by the Governments of Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania submitted to CAF, the progress is seemingly on the right course.
This week, CAF sent a team from Pricewaterhouse Coopers (PwC) comprised of Adam Vojtekovszk, Omar El Ghiati and Lakshmikanth Karunanithi to carry out inspection on the proposed facilities in regard to the bid and later report back.
The team started with Kenya and on Friday arrived at Entebbe International Airport for inspection in Uganda which will take two days (Friday and Saturday).
At the Airport, the team was welcome by FUFA 3rd Vice President Hon. Florence Nakiwala Kiyingi who was in company of Uganda Airlines CEO Jennifer Bamuturaki.
The CAF inspection team was joined by a delegation from Kenya (John Kienda Ruga, Doreen Nabwire Omondi and Maureen Nasimiyu Wekesa) and Tanzania (Wilfred Kidao and Boniface Wambura) who are here to make observations.
The first site of inspection was Mandela National Stadium that is under renovation and the team was welcomed by FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim and Deputy Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda Rt. Hon Thomas Tayebwa.
Also in attendance was FUFA 2nd Vice President Darius Mugoye, FUFA EXCO Members Rogers Mulindwa, Rogers Byamukama and Ronnie Kalema, FUFA CEO Edgar Watson and FUFA Deputy CEO-Football Decolas Kiiza.
Tayebwa expressed Government’s commitment towards the bid and gave assurance of all the support needed to have it come to reality.
“Parliament appropriates and I want to give you assurance. Any money needed, we are committed, that is why the guarantees were signed by the Executive. Parliament is fully on board and in support of this bid.” He said.
At Mandela National Stadium, the FUFA President made a presentation to the CAF inspection team highlighting Uganda’s proposed facilities including stadiums, training grounds, hotels, hospitals and airports.
He indicated if the bid is awarded to East Africa, it will have lasting positive impacts to this region.
“I believe this is the right time for East Africa to welcome the rest of Africa to our region. I know if this bid is successful, we will have a complete turnaround of the game of football in this region.” The President stated.
From Namboole, the team proceeded to Nakivubo Memorial Stadium, Kampala International School Uganda (KISU) and Kampala Serena Hotel where the first day ended with a meeting between FUFA and stadium developers.
CAF Inspection Team at Nakivubo Stadium
CAF Inspection Team at KISU
Meeting with Stadium Developers
The exercise will climax on Saturday with the CAF inspection team expected to visit St. Mary’s Stadium -Kitende, Denver Goodwin Stadium -Garuga and Entebbe International Airport before heading to Tanzania.
