Bunyoro hoteliers await Shs102 billion AFCON upgrade funding

What the report says

Hotel owners in Uganda’s Bunyoro sub-region are still waiting for a promised Shs102 billion government package meant to help them upgrade accommodation ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, according to The Independent Uganda. The financing was announced earlier this year as part of wider preparations for matches expected to be hosted in Hoima, where the new Hoima City Stadium has already been completed.

Dr Fred Kabagambe Kaliisa, chairperson of the Bunyoro Hotel Owners Association, said the money has not yet been released, so some operators have continued construction and refurbishment using their own funds. He said the sector faces a tight timeline to finish works, test facilities and have rooms ready for tournament visitors. The association had earlier sought Shs130 billion before government settled on the current plan.

The reported package is structured largely as a concessionary loan through the Uganda Development Bank at 5% interest. It includes Shs52 billion for a new 100-bed five-star hotel near Kabalega International Airport and Hoima City Stadium, Shs30 billion for upgrades to existing hotels, and Shs20 billion for other hospitality and leisure facilities in the region. Hotels named as potential beneficiaries include Miika Eco Resort Hotel, Hoima Resort Hotel, Edmara Hotel, Presidential Hotel, Urban Hotel and Kabalega Resort properties in Hoima and Masindi.

Kaliisa said the region’s current room capacity remains below expected demand and that the upgrades should also support tourism beyond AFCON. Beyond this report, the broader significance is that Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania are jointly preparing for the 2027 tournament, with host areas under pressure to improve transport, stadium and lodging infrastructure in time.