UGANDA, Kampala | Real Muloodi News | The rehabilitation of Mandela National Stadium, popularly known as Namboole Stadium, will be completed by November 30, 2023, according to Ms Janet Museveni, the Minister of Education and Sports.
The project, initially scheduled to be finished by August 1, 2023, has been extended by four months at the request of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) engineering brigade, which is responsible for the refurbishment.
During her recent visit to Mandela National Stadium, Minister Janet Museveni personally assessed the progress of the renovation works.
She received a detailed status report indicating that the updates are being carried out by FIFA’s standards.
The renovation plan includes various critical improvements to the stadium, such as a state-of-the-art ticketing and access control system, the installation of solar lighting for cost reduction, and the establishment of an efficient drainage and irrigation system.
Considering the scale of the project, which also involves the construction of a 4.2km perimeter wall and the elevation of the stadium and hotel to meet FIFA standards, Minister Museveni has approved an extension for the intervention efforts.
The completion date has been shifted from August 1, 2023, to November 30, 2023, following a request from the UPDF Engineering Brigade, the main contractor.
The minister expressed anticipation for the fully revitalised stadium when they visit in November.
The statement from Minister Janet Museveni comes after State Minister for Sports, Peter Ogwang, offered an apology in Parliament earlier this year for the national team playing in Egypt instead of at home due to a lack of options.
The UPDF engineering brigade had previously stated that the stadium would be ready by June. Concerns about the army’s ability to deliver major projects have been raised by lawmakers, and Moses Hassim Magogo, the President of the Federation of Uganda Football Association (Fufa), criticised the works carried out by the UPDF at the stadium, calling for experienced contractors and supervisors to be appointed.
Despite recent accusations and delays in government projects, Minister Museveni commended the work being done by the UPDF Engineering Brigade at the stadium.
She highlighted their achievements as a testament to the need for continued investment in technical institutes and the development of domestic talent.
The rehabilitation project, costing USh97 billion, has faced challenges such as land disputes and delayed supply deliveries.
The completion of Namboole Stadium will save the country’s funds, as it will no longer be necessary to host national team matches in other countries.
The completion of Namboole Stadium is eagerly awaited by sports fans in Uganda. The ability to host national team matches at home will enhance the team’s performance and provide a vibrant atmosphere for supporters.
With the renovated stadium meeting international standards, Uganda can look forward to creating a true home advantage and showcasing its sporting prowess on its turf.
READ MORE LIKE THIS:
Parliament Calls for Master Plan for Regional Stadium Development
