Ugandan Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja has issued a stark warning over the slow pace of renovation works at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, declaring that Uganda’s role as a co-host of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) could be at risk unless urgent action is taken.
In a strongly worded directive, Nabbanja expressed frustration over the delays at the country’s flagship football venue, stressing that Uganda cannot afford to miss key Confederation of African Football (CAF) deadlines ahead of the continental showpiece.
“No Namboole, No AFCON,” the Prime Minister warned as she demanded immediate explanations from officials overseeing the project.
Uganda is scheduled to co-host the 2027 tournament alongside Kenya and Tanzania, marking the first time three East African nations will jointly stage Africa’s biggest football event.
However, concerns over infrastructure readiness continue to grow, with CAF expected to conduct crucial inspection visits on August 31, 2026, to evaluate the preparedness of all three host nations.
Under CAF’s hosting requirements, designated training facilities must be completed by December 31, 2026, leaving Uganda with little margin for further delays.
The slow progress at Namboole has heightened fears that the country could struggle to meet those deadlines, prompting the Prime Minister to demand immediate acceleration of the project.
Nabbanja also warned that Uganda’s delays could have wider implications for the joint hosting arrangement, as preparations by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda are closely linked under the tri-nation model.
The redevelopment of Mandela National Stadium remains one of Uganda’s most critical infrastructure projects ahead of AFCON 2027, with the venue expected to host several matches during the tournament.
Failure to complete the stadium and its supporting facilities on schedule could compel CAF to reassess Uganda’s hosting responsibilities if the required standards are not met.
With time running out before CAF’s final infrastructure deadline, pressure is mounting on government officials and contractors to fast-track construction and demonstrate that Uganda remains on course to stage its share of Africa’s premier football tournament.
