The government has set November 30, 2023 as the new deadline for the completion of renovation of Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
Originally, the contractor, UPDF Engineering Brigade, was expected to handover the facility on August 1, 2023.
But in a statement issued on Tuesday, July 4, the First Lady, Janet Museveni, who is also the minister of Education and Sports, gave the contractor another three months after checking on the progress on the renovation works on the stadium.
Janet Museveni stated: “During my recent visit to the Mandela National Stadium, I had the opportunity to evaluate the progression of the renovation works firsthand. The detailed status report I received illustrated that the updates are advancing in line with FIFA’s standards.
Education and Sports minister Janet Museveni (with hut) speaks to officials after touring the facility on July 4“The renovation plan is extensive and incorporates numerous critical upgrades to the stadium. These include the integration of a state-of-the-art ticketing and access control system, installation of solar lighting to mitigate utility costs, and establishment of an efficient drainage and irrigation system. The projects further involve the creation of a 4.2km perimeter wall, along with the refurbishment and elevation of the Namboole stadium and hotel to match international standards.
“In light of these significant undertakings, I have approved an extension for these intervention efforts, shifting the initial completion date from August 1st, 2023, to November 30th, 2023. This extension was granted upon request by the project’s main contractor, the UPDF Engineering Brigade.”
She added: “As we eagerly anticipate our next visit in November, we look forward to witnessing the fully revitalized stadium.
“Moreover, I wish to stress the indispensable role of regular maintenance planning in preserving the integrity of government structures like the Mandela National Stadium. My gratitude goes out to the UPDF Engineering Brigade for their outstanding work in overhauling the stadium. Their achievements underscore the need for continued investment in our Technical Institutes, nurturing domestic talent and reducing our reliance on foreign companies.”
Recently, the Uganda Cranes hosted its home games in Egypt and Cameroon because the country currently has no stadia that meet international standards.
Furthermore, the renovation of Namboole is key factor to Uganda’s joint bid to host the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament alongside Kenya and Tanzania.