The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has authorized Uganda’s Hamz Stadium-Nakivubo to host a series of elite continental football tournaments, cementing the venue’s rapid rise as a cornerstone of African sports.

Less than a year after opening its doors to the public on June 1, 2024, the state-of-the-art stadium has earned the nod to stage high-stakes competitions, including qualifiers and finals for the Women’s African Cup of Nations (WAFCON), men’s U17, U20, and U23 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournaments, as well as preliminary rounds of the CAF Champions League and Confederations Cup.

CAF lauded the facility in an official statement, highlighting its “invaluable contribution to elevating the quality of African football.”

This endorsement builds on a string of accolades for the stadium, which received FIFA certification for its turf in October 2024 following a visit by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who personally presented the certification.

Earlier this year, the stadium’s global reputation was further bolstered by a nomination for a prestigious Global Award recognizing it among the world’s top sports venues.

Rogers Mulindwa, Chairman of the Hamz Stadium Management Committee, credited the collaborative efforts of Uganda’s government and sports leadership, including President Yoweri Museveni, Education and Sports Minister Janet Kataha Museveni, State Minister for Sports Peter Ogwang, and FUFA President Moses Magogo.

“This milestone is a testament to Uganda’s collective vision for excellence in sports,” Mulindwa said. “We are committed to upholding world-class standards as we host these tournaments, showcasing not just our stadium but the spirit of Ugandan and African football,” he added.

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The CAF approval is expected to amplify Uganda’s profile on the continental stage, attracting international fans, fostering talent development, and driving tourism.

With its cutting-edge infrastructure and rapid ascent in global recognition, Hamz Stadium-Nakivubo stands poised to become a beacon for Africa’s football ambitions—and a symbol of Uganda’s growing influence in the sport.