What Is the Plan for Uganda’s Three New Stadiums after AFCON 2027?

Uganda is investing more than $300 million in three stadiums for AFCON 2027: Mandela National Stadium at Namboole is being expanded to 45,000 seats, while new 20,000-seat stadiums are being built in Hoima and Lira. After the tournament, scheduled for June 21 to July 17, 2027, the country will have 85,000 seats but no published revenue model, while Uganda Premier League matches average 3,000 to 5,000 attendees. Paulo J. Cruz, CEO of African Collaborations Group, says Uganda should establish a commercial plan before the tournament and integrate the venues into sport and entertainment districts that earn revenue throughout the year. He says his company works with governments to prepare such projects for private and institutional investment without using public budget funds.