New Akii Bua Stadium Images Impress Ugandans as Construction Gains Momentum (Photos)

Fresh images showing the ongoing construction of Akii Bua Stadium in Lira City have generated excitement among Ugandans, with many praising the visible progress being made on one of the country’s flagship sports infrastructure projects.

The latest photographs, shared on social media this week, reveal significant developments at the stadium site, where construction works have accelerated ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which Uganda will co-host alongside Kenya and Tanzania.

Many social media users expressed admiration for the quality of work and the pace of construction, noting that the project appears to have advanced considerably compared to earlier stages when concerns were raised about delays.

Akii Bua Stadium is being constructed in Lira City by Egyptian contractor SAMCO National Construction Company as part of Uganda’s broader preparations for AFCON 2027. Once completed, the facility is expected to meet Confederation of African Football (CAF) standards and host major continental sporting events.

The stadium is designed to accommodate approximately 20,000 spectators and will feature modern sports infrastructure, including an athletics track, training facilities, media areas, hospitality suites, dressing rooms, and ample parking space.

Construction officially commenced in early 2025 following the groundbreaking ceremony presided over by President Yoweri Museveni and First Lady Janet Museveni. The project is estimated to cost about $129 million and is expected to be completed before the 2027 AFCON tournament.

The development of Akii Bua Stadium forms part of Uganda’s wider effort to upgrade sports infrastructure across the country. In addition to the Lira facility, the government is developing Hoima City Stadium and modernizing sports facilities at Lugogo, while Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, has already undergone extensive renovations.

Sports stakeholders say the investments will not only help Uganda meet CAF requirements for hosting AFCON matches but will also leave a lasting legacy for sports development long after the tournament concludes.

With construction continuing to gather pace, many Ugandans are increasingly optimistic that Akii Bua Stadium will be ready in time to play a key role in the historic continental tournament.