Lira City’s Akii Bua Olympic City Stadium Takes Shape Ahead of AFCON 2027
Speaking at the ceremony, President Museveni noted that while the stadium was initially prioritized for its historical significance, Uganda’s successful AFCON bid prompted further investment, including the development of Hoima as a host city due to its airport access.
Construction of the Akii Bua Olympic City Stadium in Lira City is progressing steadily, with work currently at 25%, according to Uganda’s Minister of State for Sports, Peter Ogwang.
The 20,000-seat venue is part of Uganda’s preparations to host matches for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Named after John Akii-Bua, Uganda’s 1972 Olympic 400m hurdles gold medalist, the stadium is set to become a flagship sporting facility in Northern Uganda.
The project, awarded to Egypt’s SAMCO National Construction Company, carries a contract value of Shs 470 billion (USD 129 million). Construction began in December 2024, following a ground-breaking ceremony led by President Museveni in January 2025.
Once complete, the stadium complex will feature a 20,000-seat main arena, an eight-lane athletics track, a 2,000-seat multi-sport indoor hall, a 25-meter semi-Olympic swimming pool, and outdoor courts for basketball, netball, volleyball, and badminton. A parking facility for 1,000 vehicles will also support major events.
Speaking at the ceremony, President Museveni noted that while the stadium was initially prioritized for its historical significance, Uganda’s successful AFCON bid prompted further investment, including the development of Hoima as a host city due to its airport access.
The Lira stadium is expected to host both football and athletics events during the tri-nation tournament, jointly staged by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania in 2027. The facility will be built on the 18.5-hectare John Akii Bua Playground in Lira City.
Construction is advancing, with SAMCO completing 85% of the earthworks and 437 of the 872 required reinforced piles already installed. Work on reinforced columns, footings, and pile testing is ongoing as the project moves toward its next phase.
Once finished, the Akii Bua Olympic City Stadium will enhance Uganda’s capacity to host major international sporting events and underscore the country’s growing ambitions in football and athletics.
