Akii-Bua Stadium construction approved

Summary:

• An Egyptian company, Wassim Gamal Eldien, has been awarded a contract to construct Akii Bua Stadium in Lira City, Uganda, for the 2027 African Cup of Nations. State Minister Peter Ogwang initiated the project, aiming for completion within 20 months and anticipating four Afcon games.

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Wassim Gamal Eldien, an Egyptian company, has secured a contract for the construction of Akii Bua Stadium in Lira City, located in the Lango sub-region of Uganda. This decision came after the Ugandan government reversed its stance and approved Akii Bua Stadium to co-host the African Cup of Nations (Afcon) in 2027.

State Minister of Sports, Peter Ogwang, accompanied by some Egyptian contractors, visited Lira on Thursday to initiate the project. On February 29, Ogwang, alongside teams from the Ministry of Education and Sports, National Council of Sports, and FUFA, officially handed over the site to the contractors. Local leaders, including members of parliament and sports enthusiasts, witnessed the ceremony.

Minister Ogwang announced that the stadium is slated to host four Afcon games, with ongoing negotiations for additional events. The construction budget for Akii Bua Stadium is set at $70 million, with an anticipated completion time of 20 months.

Despite previous controversies surrounding Minister Ogwang’s statements regarding Akii Bua in 2023, he urged local leaders to facilitate a conducive environment for the project, emphasizing the government’s dedication to enhancing sports infrastructure nationwide. He also mentioned plans to upgrade the Gulu airport to meet international standards.

MP Tonny Ayoo of Kwania County expressed full support for the project, urging the people of Lango to embrace it. He extended apologies for the negative remarks made against Minister Ogwang in the past.

Mayor Sam Atul highlighted Lira City’s development and urged the government to provide more services, including road upgrades, to the region. LC5 RCM Okello Orik emphasized the importance of a modern stadium for Lango, stressing the area’s sporting potential.

Senior Presidential Advisor Sam Engola encouraged Minister Ogwang to ensure timely completion of the project, noting the divisive politics surrounding Akii Bua Stadium. Engola also announced President Museveni’s pledge to donate a new bus to the Lango Province Team.

However, MP Linda Agness Auma raised concerns about the project’s transparency, questioning the absence of a formal contract and the funding arrangement with the Egyptian company. She emphasized the need for clarity regarding the contract terms and government’s position, despite the positive developments.

Last year, the #NoAkiiBuaForAfconNoVotes campaign utilized social media platforms to pressure the government for a response, highlighting the public’s engagement in the project’s progress.