Africa Rugby has unanimously accepted Uganda’s bid to host the 2024 and 2025 Editions of Rugby Africa Cup at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
“The ongoing renovations were configured to cater for WR stadium specifications for the rugby pitch standard measurements. On-going works target accommodating facilities like changing rooms, medical, officials and mobile Stands. Namboole will also be a new home for Uganda Rugby Union offices,” said the Uganda Rugby Union (URU) in a statement on X.
The Minister of Sports, Hon. Peter Ogwang, clarified that Namboole has taken care of several other sports disciplines, including Rugby and the finishing makes Uganda ready to host the Rugby Africa Tournaments and other key national and international rugby events.
On Thursday morning, the sports minister flanked by URU President Godwin Kayangwe inspected the Rugby playing field at Namboole to ensure its readiness.
The Minister thanked the URU guru for pushing the bid through and Rugby Africa for the vote of confidence.
“Note that the current renovations at Namboole have taken care of several other sports disciplines, including Rugby and I am glad to report that we are ready to start hosting both local and international games,” said Ogwang.
In a special way, he thanked H.E President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and the Minister of Education and Sports, Mama Janet Kataha Museveni for their unwavering support in making this possible.
Education Minister and First Lady, Hon Janet K Museveni, personally assessed progress at the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
“Looking at Mandela Stadium is truly a blessing, and I have faith in our team’s ability to complete the remaining tasks swiftly. With God’s help and our collective efforts, I’m certain we’ll see this project through and host sporting events in a stadium that we can all truly be proud of,” she said.
She applauded the UPDF Engineering Brigade, the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Works, and her own ministry led by the Permanent Secretary and the technical team.
“I extend my special thanks also to Hon. Peter Ogwang for his dedication and the high standards he sets for his team.”
She added: “The time has come to build and support Uganda because we have waited long enough. It is regrettable that Africa, blessed with all its abundant resources, remains undeveloped. We have no excuse for not building our country, restoring its pride, and giving the glory back to God. The time for change is now.”
