Janet Museveni Launches 2027 AFCON Organizing Committee

Janet Museveni, the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, launched the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) and seven subcommittees for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Uganda. The event took place on May 17, 2024, at State House Nakasero.

Mrs. Museveni heads the LOC, with Peter Ogwang, Minister of State for Sports, as her deputy. The committee includes notable members like Hon. Moses Magogo, Dr. Joseph Muvawala, Rev. Can Dr. Duncan Mugumya, Pius Biribononoha, and Jacqueline Basemera.

The subcommittee chairs are:

• Brighton Barugahare: Government Services
• Ambrose Tashobya: Infrastructure and Facilities
• Justus Mugisha: Sporting
• Kalema Ronnie: Competition Organizing
• Dr. Ogwel Bernard Patrick: Finance and Resource Mobilization
• Rogers Byamukama: Protocol and Hospitality
• Dr. Mugimba Dennis: Marketing and Communication

In September 2023, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) awarded the 36th AFCON hosting rights to East Africa’s joint bid by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. This is the first tournament of such magnitude hosted by these countries since AFCON’s inception in 1957.

Janet Museveni stressed the importance of teamwork, collective responsibility, and transparency. She urged committee members to prioritize Uganda’s interests and avoid unethical conduct and financial impropriety.

The same committees will also support the CHAN tournament in September 2024. Mrs. Museveni expressed pride and gratitude for the committee members’ commitment. She expects Uganda to provide an exceptional experience for Africa and the world.

Peter Ogwang praised Janet Museveni’s leadership, highlighting her role in securing Uganda’s AFCON 2027 bid. He emphasized the regional Inter-Ministerial Committee’s advisory role, consisting of representatives from Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania.

Ogwang reported that Parliament approved 152 billion shillings for constructing Hoima City Stadium, a venue for AFCON 2027. Additionally, 100 billion shillings will fund the Akii Bua Memorial Stadium in Lira City in the 2024/2025 financial year.

Mrs. Museveni highlighted the 2027 AFCON as an opportunity to showcase Uganda’s capabilities and leave a lasting legacy. She urged the LOC to ensure meticulous preparation and uphold high standards.

Janet Museveni’s speech emphasized Uganda’s commitment to hosting a successful tournament. She reiterated the importance of accountability, transparency, and ethical conduct in organizing the event.

The LOC’s formation marks a significant step towards the 2027 AFCON. Uganda’s collaborative efforts with Kenya and Tanzania demonstrate regional unity and shared responsibility in hosting the prestigious event.

As preparations begin, the LOC will focus on infrastructure, facilities, and resource mobilization. The government has committed substantial funds to stadium construction, ensuring readiness for the tournament.

The committee’s work will be closely monitored by the public, reflecting the high expectations for transparency and accountability. Janet Museveni’s leadership and vision set the tone for the LOC’s mission to deliver a memorable AFCON 2027.

The AFCON 2027 organizing efforts symbolize Uganda’s dedication to sports development and international cooperation. The event promises to enhance Uganda’s global profile and foster regional collaboration.

In conclusion, Janet Museveni’s inauguration of the AFCON 2027 LOC signifies a pivotal moment in Uganda’s sports history. The collaborative efforts with Kenya and Tanzania aim to create a successful and impactful tournament, showcasing the best of East Africa to the world.