By Patrick Opio
Senior Communications Officer
The Uganda Peoples Defence Forces (UPDF), Capt. Jimmy Omara has said the ongoing construction of the training pitch during the Africa Football Cup of Nations (AFCON) football competitions will be completed as scheduled.
While meeting the Lira University Management Team at the site on 10th June 2026, Capt. Omara said serious works have started with mobilisation of building materials and human resources, clearing the site, among others. UPDF’s National Enterprises Corporation has been awarded the contract.
The Acting Vice Chancellor, Dr. Andrew Ojulong led the Management Team that included the Academic Registrar, Mr. Angela Geoffrey and others.
Dr. Ojulong lauded the National Council of Sports (NCS) for choosing Lira University where the stadium will be constructed to boost AFCON games and sports generally. “The facility will support sports activities during and after the AFCON. We are happy with the Government for this positive gesture,” Dr Ojulong said.
Dr. Ojulong added that the Training facility will offer numerous benefits for the northern region and 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.
He observed that the facility will definitely generate employment opportunities, and attract visitors for sporting events, stimulating tourism and related businesses in the local area.
“With the increased tourism and event attendance local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, transportation services, and craft vendors will spur,” Dr. Ojulong said.
On the role of sports in enhancing Uganda’s international reputation, Dr. Ojulong stressed that investments in modern stadiums in the country would provide local athletes with better training facilities and increase the country’s competitiveness on the global stage.