By Pascal Kwesiga
The Government has set aside Shs 545.99 billion to upgrade health and sports training facilities as Uganda steps up preparations to host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament next year.
Hoima Regional Referral Hospital, Masindi General Hospital, and Buseruka Health Centre III near Kabalega International Airport in Kabaale, Hoima, will undergo major infrastructural upgrades worth Shs 91 billion. In addition, Buseruka Health Centre III will be elevated to a Health Centre IV.
Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja recently presided over the groundbreaking ceremonies for the health and sports facility upgrades. She said the projects are intended to address the medical and training needs associated with the AFCON 2027 tournament.
“The money coming into Bunyoro for AFCON projects does not include the USD 130 million (Shs 487 billion) invested in the construction of Hoima City Stadium,” Nabbanja said.
Some of the money will be used to tarmac roads leading to the stadium
Another Shs 183.7 billion will be used to establish a passenger terminal at Kabalega International Airport and to procure a bus for the facility. The airport was initially designed as a cargo facility.
Hoteliers will receive Shs 101.1 billion to help them upgrade the standards and capacity of their facilities ahead of the expected influx of visitors to Hoima and Masindi during the tournament.
Upgrading King George, Sir Tito Winyi Secondary School, and Hoima Booma playgrounds will cost Shs 52.1 billion. A further Shs 106.4 billion will be spent on tarmacking roads around Hoima City Stadium, as well as improvements to water and electricity infrastructure.
Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja officiates at the groundbreaking ceremony for the upgrade of Hoima Hospital
Shs 11.65 billion will be used to improve utility infrastructure in Hoima and Masindi towns. The Prime Minister urged residents of Hoima and Masindi to take advantage of the opportunities presented by the tournament.
“Many of our brothers and sisters from various African countries and beyond will be residing in Hoima and Masindi during the tournament,” Nabbanja said. “They will need better accommodation, food, and other services.”
