Namboole to Host StarTimes Uganda Premier League as Test Events Ahead of Re-opening

FUFA and the StarTimes Uganda Premier League Secretariat have confirmed that two games will be staged at Mandela National Stadium as part of the test events to have the facility re-opened to international games.

In a press conference held at the FUFA Complex on Wednesday, FUFA Executive Committee Member Rogers Byamukama who represented the FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim confirmed the latest development.

He was flanked by League Manager Paul Kabaikaramu, KCCA FC CEO Anisha Muhoozi, FUFA Deputy CEO Humphrey Mandu and StarTimes representative Junior Ssembatya.

Byamukama revealed that the move is part of the requests made by CAF before the stadium is granted the greenlight to host international games.

“As you are aware, there has been renovation works ongoing at Mandela National Stadium and with the process coming to the final stages, CAF requested that we have a series of test events, one of which is hosting test matches,” he started.

“We reached out to the League Secretariat who engaged two teams to host their games at Mandela National Stadium. Thankfully, KCCA FC and BUL FC agreed to play against SC Villa and Vipers SC respectively. We believe these are two big games that have a say in the title race and we are convinced they will give us a good test of the refurbished stadium.” He added.

The games will take place on 1st May 2024 with BUL FC facing Vipers SC at 4 PM EAT before KCCA FC playing SC Villa at 7 PM EAT.

Kabaikaramu, the StarTimes Uganda Premier League Manager revealed that the two teams were positive to the idea and believe having a doubleheader at this time is perfect timing.

“We are glad that Namboole is coming back and what a moment for us as a League to have two games on the same day there. Both KCCA FC and BUL FC were positive to the idea and we believe the importance of the games will even come with additional attention.” He stated.

Anisha Muhoozi, the KCCA CEO revealed they are ready for the experience at Namboole and called upon fans to turn up in big numbers.

“We all know Namboole is the home of Ugandan Football and to see that the stadium is returning to functionality is a good step. I therefore call upon all our fans to come in big numbers and we experience the new Mandela National Stadium.”

It was confirmed that the entrance fee for the fans will be UGX 10,000 ordinary and UGX 50,000. Information about the purchase of tickets will be released on Friday.

FUFA Deputy CEO, Humphrey Mandu who also doubles as CAF Safety and Security officer assured the general public that there will be ample deployment of both covert and overt security details.

“We have been in touch with the two host clubs as far as security and safety is concerned and engaged Uganda Police to see that there will be enough deployment before, during and after the game. I therefore call upon fans to turn up in big numbers.”

StarTimes Operations Manager in charge of the League confirmed that the two games will be broadcast live on Sanyuka Prime and FUFA Tv.

FUFA is working towards making sure CAF grants Mandela National Stadium the greenlight to host the upcoming 2026 FUFA World Cup Qualifiers. Uganda Cranes will host Botswana and Algeria on the 5th and 9th of June respectively.

Source: FUFA