Summary:

• The Ugandan government has signed a $129 million contract with Egypt’s SAMCO National Construction Company to build the Akii Bua Olympic Stadium in Lira City. The project, which will include a 20,000-seat stadium and various sports facilities, is set for completion in 20 months.

The Government of Uganda has officially entered into a contract with Egypt’s SAMCO National Construction Company for the construction of the Akii Bua Olympic Stadium in Lira City. The project, which is set to cost $129 million, will feature a 20,000-seat stadium and is expected to be completed in 20 months.

The signing ceremony took place at State House Nakasero, hosted by First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Mrs. Janet Museveni. The Government was represented by Muhammad Bbaale, the Accounting Officer of the National Council of Sports (NCS), while SAMCO was represented by Engineer Ibrahim Abdelaziz Mahmoud Mabrouk. Solicitor General Pius Biribonwoha was also present to witness the event.

During the ceremony, Mrs. Museveni handed over an 18.455-hectare land title for the stadium’s construction to Ambrose Tashobya, Chairperson of the NCS. State Minister for Sports, Peter Ogwang, emphasized that the stadium would be a state-of-the-art facility, featuring not only the main stadium but also an indoor sports arena, swimming pool, multiple outdoor courts, and extensive parking and infrastructure.

The facility will also include a 60-room hostel, sports pitches, and a borehole to cut water maintenance costs. Minister Ogwang recognized the long wait for the realization of the project, which fulfills a promise made by President Museveni in 2010 to the people of Lango.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Minister of Health Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, Minister Betty Amongi, Deputy Attorney General Kafuuzi Jackson, and representatives from the NCS, FUFA, and the Ministry of Education and Sports. The project has garnered strong local support, and work is expected to begin immediately, with officials urging the contractors to stay on schedule.