FUFA President Moses Hassim Magogo has revealed that Uganda was not fully prepared to host the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) as originally planned for February.
He acknowledged that the decision to postpone the tournament until August has given Uganda the crucial extra time needed to complete its preparations.
Earlier in January, during an appearance on NBS Sport’s Inside Sport show, Magogo had reassured Ugandans that the country was ready for the competition. However, he now recognizes that the delay has allowed for more time to address the areas that were still not fully ready.
“We’ve benefited from the postponement of CHAN. As a country, we were barely prepared to host it,” Magogo admitted.
The tournament will now take place from August 2 to 30, 2025, with Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania jointly hosting.
Magogo emphasized that this extension will enable Uganda to further develop its infrastructure, especially the training grounds designated for the event.
Progress has been made at several key stadiums, including Kyambogo University Stadium, Muteesa II Stadium in Wankulukuku, and FUFA Stadium in Kadiba. Kadiba is nearly finished, while Kyambogo and Wankulukuku still require some additional work.
“We still have some tasks to complete at Kyambogo, but we are on track. Kadiba has made significant progress and is almost done,” he said. “Wankulukuku needs a few improvements, but we’re working diligently to ensure it’s ready.”
Magogo also highlighted the benefit of the postponement in allowing FUFA and other stakeholders to better engage the Ugandan public and generate excitement for the event.
“The delay gives us more time to mobilize the nation and create enthusiasm for the tournament,” he stated. “This is an area we hadn’t done well in, but we now have time to address it.”
Additionally, Magogo called for further upgrades at Wankulukuku, specifically the installation of floodlights, which would make it suitable for evening matches during CHAN and the Uganda Premier League.
“We are requesting the installation of floodlights, so Wankulukuku can host night football for CHAN,” he said. “Having this stadium host night matches would leave a lasting legacy from the tournaments we’re hosting.”
Magogo concluded by stressing the importance of the improvements, which will contribute to the lasting impact of Uganda’s role in hosting the tournament.
