Uganda Eyes Tourism Gains from AFCON 2027 Investments

What the report says

Uganda is positioning its preparations for AFCON 2027 as more than a sports project, with officials and business stakeholders saying the event could help expand tourism, create jobs and strengthen local enterprises. The discussion was a major theme on the second day of the 7th Uganda Economic Forum at Next Media Park, where participants examined how the expected arrival of visitors for the continental tournament could translate into wider economic activity.

According to the Nile Post report, Minister of State for Sports Peter Ogwang said the government has invested more than Shs3.5 trillion in sports facilities and supporting infrastructure ahead of the tournament. He framed the spending as an opportunity to build long-term value through tourism, employment and new markets for Ugandan firms, while also stressing that the facilities should remain useful after AFCON ends. The government has also set aside additional budget support for 2026/2027 related to stadiums, roads, airport works and other tournament needs.

Speakers at the forum warned that visitor numbers alone will not automatically benefit ordinary people. Ministry of Education and Sports spokesperson Dr Dennis Mugimba said tourism businesses need to offer affordable and competitive services, while Uganda Tourism Board chief executive Juliana Kaggwa said marketing efforts will continue to highlight the country’s wildlife, landscapes and biodiversity. The report said the aim is to link major event hosting with broader tourism growth and community-level gains.

AFCON 2027 will be co-hosted by Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania in June and July 2027. The article said the main test for Uganda will be whether businesses and communities can prepare in time to capture spending on accommodation, transport, food and entertainment.