By Patrick Opio
Senior Communications Officer
Lira University has donated 50 acres of land to the National Council of Sports (NCS) for construction of a Sports Stadium, the training ground during the Africa Football Cup of Nations (AFCON) football competitions.
While discussing the draft architectural design during a meeting with the team from NCS at the Public Health Board Room on 14th August 2025, Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jasper Ogwal Okeng said that the Lira University Sports Training Pitch whose construction is expected to start soon, offers numerous benefits for Uganda, particularly Lira University and the surrounding northern region.
Consultative meeting presided over by Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jasper Ogwal Okeng
Prof. Ogwal Okeng observed that the Training facility will serve as a catalyst for sports development, economic growth, and tourism, while also fostering youth development and community engagement. The Training Pitch will support Akibua Stadium in Lira City during the AFCON.
On job Creation, Prof. Ogwal Okeng observed that the construction phase generates employment opportunities, and the stadium’s operation will continue to create jobs in various sectors as the facility is also expected to attract visitors for sporting events, including the 2027 (AFCON), stimulating tourism and related businesses in the area.
He added that the increased tourism and event attendance will benefit local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, transportation services, and craft vendors.
Describing the sports project as a game-changer for the region, Assoc. Prof. Okaka Opio Dokotum emphasized that beyond football, the sports facility would become a hub for youth development programs, helping to nurture talent and create employment.
On legacy for future generations, Prof. Okaka Opio Dokotum asserts that the facility will be a valuable asset for future generations, providing opportunities for sports and community development.
Assoc. Prof. Edward Ojuka highlighted the role of sports in enhancing Uganda’s international reputation, stressing that investments in modern stadiums would provide local athletes with better training facilities and increase the country’s competitiveness on the global stage.
NCS Team members pose for a group photo with Lira University group shortly after the meeting
Other benefits the members at the meeting revealed were;
- Investment Attraction: The sports Training facility will be a catalyst for attracting both local and foreign investment into the region.
- Infrastructure Development: The Training Pitch project will encourage the development of supporting infrastructure like roads and utilities.
- Increased Revenue: The facility will generate revenue through ticket sales, event hosting, and other commercial activities.
Social and Sports Development:
- Sports Development: The project will provide a modern facility for training and competition, helping to nurture talent and improve sports performance at the university.
- Youth Development: The facility will serve as a hub for youth development programs, providing opportunities for young people to participate in sports and other activities.
- Community Engagement: The stadium will foster community engagement through sporting events, cultural activities, and other initiatives.
- National Pride: The stadium will be a source of national pride, showcasing Uganda’s commitment to sports development and international excellence.
