Kole, Uganda: The outgoing Kole District Woman Member of Parliament, Hon. Judith Alyek, has called on government and newly elected leaders to fast-track the upgrade of Akii-Bua Stadium in Lira to meet international standards ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Alyek made the remarks during a press conference at Kole District Headquarters on Sunday, warning that failure to upgrade the facility would deny Northern Uganda a historic opportunity to host matches during the continental tournament.
“It would be highly unfortunate for Akii-Bua not to host AFCON 2027. This is an opportunity that Uganda cannot afford to miss,” Alyek said. “I urge our newly elected MPs to hit the ground running and push government to deliver this project for the people of Lango and Uganda at large.”
Named after Uganda’s Olympic legend John Akii-Bua, the stadium remains a powerful symbol of national achievement and pride, particularly for the Lango sub-region.
Alyek stressed that upgrading the facility would not only honour Akii-Bua’s legacy but also position Uganda as a competitive host for AFCON 2027.
“The stadium is an icon. It is where Uganda’s pride was born in 1972. If we are to honour that legacy, we must ensure it is fit to host a tournament of this magnitude,” she added.
The call has gained traction among local leaders and sports stakeholders, who see the project as a catalyst for regional transformation.
Hon. Tonny Jaspher Odongo, LC5 Vice Chairperson for Apac District, described the stadium project as a gateway to economic and social growth.
“This is not just about football. It is about development for Lango and Northern Uganda. Hosting AFCON will open opportunities for businesses, create jobs, and promote tourism,” Odongo said.
Mr. Opio Moses, Apac FUFA delegate to the National Council, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the wider economic ripple effect. “Hotels, transport, food vendors, everyone stands to benefit. More importantly, our youth will gain access to world-class facilities that can nurture talent and inspire careers in sports,” he noted.
Leaders are now turning attention to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and central government to prioritise the project within Uganda’s broader AFCON 2027 infrastructure plans.
Alyek urged government to move beyond commitments and accelerate implementation. “The time for promises is over. The people of Lira and the entire northern region deserve action. This is about our youth and Uganda’s position in continental sports,” she said.
Uganda is set to co-host AFCON 2027 alongside Kenya and Tanzania, a tournament expected to attract tens of thousands of visitors and drive major investment in infrastructure.
Stakeholders believe inclusion of Akii-Bua Stadium among host venues would decentralise development and ensure that benefits extend beyond Kampala.
Experts say the tournament presents a unique opportunity to boost tourism, expand hospitality infrastructure, and create employment, especially for youth.
“When young people see international stars playing at home, it inspires them to dream bigger,” Alyek noted. “This is how you build future champions.”
With preparations for AFCON 2027 already underway, pressure is mounting on government to ensure key facilities meet Confederation of African Football (CAF) standards in time.
Local leaders maintain that upgrading Akii-Bua Stadium is not just a regional demand, but a national investment with long-term returns.
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