Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo War Memorial Grounds

Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo War Memorial Grounds
CAF
Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo War Memorial Grounds
Location within Kampala
Former namesNakivubo Stadium
AddressNakivubo War Memorial Grounds
Kampala
Uganda
LocationNakivubo War Memorial Grounds
Kampala,
Coordinates0°18′42″N 32°34′25″E / 0.311667°N 32.573611°E / 0.311667; 32.573611
OwnerGovernment of Uganda
OperatorDr. Hamis Kiggundu[1][2]
Capacity35,000[3]
Executive suites40
SurfaceAstroTurf
Field size115 yd × 74 yd (105 m × 68 m)
Construction
Opened1 April 1926 (1926-04-01)
Renovated1954, 2013, 2017
Reopened1 June 2024 (2024-06-01)
Demolished28 February 2017[2] (Commissioned 25 April 2024)[4]
Construction costUS$200,000,000
ArchitectChristopher Omara (Bwap Studios)
Structural engineerIvan Ssewankambo (ISB Construction Ltd)
Tenants
Express FC (2024–present)
URA FC (2024–present)
Website
Home Page

Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo War Memorial Grounds, formerly referred to as Nakivubo Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium in Kampala, Uganda.[5][6] The Hamz Stadium is used mostly for association football and also sometimes for basketball.

Following extensive renovations led by businessman Haji Dr. Hamis Kiggundu in partnership with the Ugandan government, the stadium was upgraded to meet Confederation of African Football (CAF) requirements.[7] The facility auditioned with significant events like CAF U17 and CHAN 2024 in december 2024[8][9] which were among the first major international fixtures hosted at the renovated stadium. It is slated to host the AFCON2027.[10]As of December 2024; Two Uganda premier league clubs URA FC and Express FC use Hamz stadium as their home ground.[11][12][13] The stadium was commissioned by President Museveni on 25 April 2024.[14] It has a total seating capacity of 35000 people.[15]

Location

The stadium is located in the Central Business District of Kampala City at Nakivubo War Memorial Grounds, surrounded by Ham Shopping Grounds,[16] within a walking distance from the New Taxi Park.[17] It sits on two adjacent parcels of land measuring 11.62 acres (47,000 m2) and 0.835 acres (3,380 m2), totaling 12.455 acres (50,400 m2).[18]

History

Early Development

Originally established in 1926 on land donated by the Kabaka of Buganda.[1] It hosted its first match on 1 April 1926 between the Uganda National Team and the Under-18 National team of Uganda.[19]

It became a central venue for football in Uganda, hosting various local and international matches.[20]

In 1954, the stadium was renamed Nakivubo War Memorial Stadium to honor Ugandan soldiers who lost their lives during World War II. The renaming followed legislative action under the Nakivubo War Memorial Stadium Trust Act passed by the Parliament of Uganda.[21][22] It was later renamed Nakivubo Stadium at Nakivubo War Memorial Grounds.[23]

However, by the early 21st century, the stadium had fallen into disrepair, reflecting the broader challenges of maintaining public infrastructure in Kampala.[24]

Redevelopment

In 2015, Ham Enterprises, led by Haji Dr. Hamis Kiggundu, collaborated with the Ugandan government to renovate and upgrade the stadium.[25] In 2017, all the deteriorated structures were completely demolished, followed by the commencement of new construction works.[26][27] In December 2023, the Nile Post a Ugandan online publication, reported that after the ongoing renovations were completed the name of the stadium would be changed to Hamz Stadium Nakivubo.[28] The renovated stadium was commissioned by Yoweri Museveni, the Ugandan Head of State on 25 April 2024.[4] The renovated stadium has a seating capacity of 35,000, broken down as follows (i) 20,000 ordinary seats (ii) 10,000 VIP seats (iii) 5,000 VVIP seats and (iv) 40 executive boxes[29] and other added modern facilities, with a total investment approximately US$200 million.[30]

Features and Facilities

The new stadium includes a football pitch certified by FIFA, athletics tracks, a basketball court, and a boxing ring. It also includes VIP lounges, executive boxes, and health and emergency facilities.[31] The artificial playing turf was certified by FIFA for the period 4 October 2024 to 3 October 2027.[32][33][34]

Opening Ceremony

The stadium was officially opened on 1 June 2024 in Kampala. The ceremony began at 7:00 PM and included a 10-minute fireworks display.[35] During the opening event URA FC defeated Kitara FC with a 3-0 in a football match. The ceremony also featured musical performances by Ugandan artists including Rema Namakula, Eddy Kenzo, Cindy, Bebe Cool, Alien Skin, among others.[36]The event included football and boxing competitions. SC Villa won the football match, while Zahara Nandawula won in amateur boxing and Isaac Zebra Jr. won in professional boxing.[37] Security for the event was provided by the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF). During the ceremony, one spectator required medical attention and was treated on-site.[38] The opening ceremony was attended by several public officials, including Vice Presidents: Gilbert Bukenya and Edward Kiwanuka Ssekandi, FUFA President Moses Magogo, and Vision Group CEO Don Wanyama. Attendees were provided with food and refreshments during the event.[39] In remarks at the event, Dr. Hamis Kiggundu stated that the stadium was prepared to host future sports and cultural activities.[39] The opening ceremony concluded at 5:30 AM following a series of sporting and entertainment activities..[38]

FIFA Certification

In October 2024, FIFA certified the artificial turf at Hamz Stadium. According to a certificate signed by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, the playing surface met the organisation’s requirements for international matches.[40][41] The certification allows the stadium to host international fixtures in accordance with FIFA regulations. It has been cited in relation to Uganda’s preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.[42]

Socioeconomic Impact

According to The Spy Uganda and the New Vision, the redevelopment created temporary construction employment and increased commercial activity in the surrounding area.[43] Officials stated that the stadium may host future international events.[44]

Football Events

The facility is set to host major sporting events, including AFCON 2027 and has already held the CHAN 2024 and CAF U-17 highlighting Uganda's capacity to organize international sports competitions.[45][8][46]

Controversies

The renovation project faced initial skepticism and resistance from local communities and market vendors, concerned about the potential loss of heritage and public space.[47][48]

Recognition

In January 2025, Hamz Stadium was included in the shortlist for StadiumDB.com's annual Stadium of the Year public poll, which recognizes football venues completed in the preceding calendar year.[49][50] The award is decided by a global public vote organized by StadiumDB.com and its affiliated platforms.[51]

References

  1. ^ a b Red Pepper (31 March 2015). "M7 Directs Ham Enterprises to Redevelop Nakivubo Stadium". Red Pepper. Mukono, Uganda. Retrieved 7 July 2017.
  2. ^ a b Daily Monitor (27 March 2017). "How Hamis waved Museveni's order to take over Nakivubo land". Daily Monitor. Kampala, Uganda. Retrieved 26 April 2024.
  3. ^ https://stadiumdb.com/stadiums/uga/hamz_stadium
  4. ^ a b Joseph Mutebi (25 April 2024). "President Museveni Commissions Nakivubo Stadium". New Vision. Kampala, Uganda. Retrieved 25 April 2024.
  5. ^ Kabayo, Simon (2024-02-21). "First Lady impressed by Hamz Nakivubo stadium construction". Eagle Online. Retrieved 2024-03-19.
  6. ^ Newsz, Charmar (2023-12-05). "Museveni to officially open Hamz Stadium Nakivubo". Charmar. Retrieved 2024-03-19.
  7. ^ Ssenoga, Shafik (2025-03-01). "Sports: Hamz Stadium achieves CAF Category 2 status, joins Africa's elite football venues". New Vision. Retrieved 2026-02-22.
  8. ^ a b "2024 CHAN Qualifiers: Uganda edge Burundi in first leg at Hamz Stadium". FUFA UGANDA. 2024-12-26. Retrieved 2024-12-29.
  9. ^ Mbabazi, Hannington (2024-03-08). "TOP STORY! CAF Impressed By Hamz Nakivubo Stadium Ahead of CHAN, AFCON 2027". Thecapital Times. Retrieved 2024-03-19.
  10. ^ "[PHOTOS] Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda battle for the biggest stadia in EAC". Pulse Kenya. 2025-08-28. Retrieved 2026-02-22.
  11. ^ "URA FC Returns to Nakivubo Stadium for 2024/25 Season – THE TAX COLLECTORS". Retrieved 2024-10-08.
  12. ^ Kironde, Baron (2024-07-16). "URA Find New Home Ahead Of 2024/25 Season". Live from ground. Retrieved 2024-10-08.
  13. ^ "Express FC to use Nakivubo for the upcoming 2024-2025 season". The Independent Uganda. 2024-07-16. Retrieved 2024-10-08.
  14. ^ PPU (2024-04-25). "President Museveni Commissions Nakivubo War Memorial Stadium". State House Uganda. Retrieved 2024-05-08.
  15. ^ "Hamz Stadium (Nakivubo Stadium) – StadiumDB.com". stadiumdb.com. Retrieved 2025-08-02.
  16. ^ KAMOGA, JONATHAN (15 November 2017). "Ham's shopping grounds create mixed feelings". The Observer - Uganda. Archived from the original on 2021-06-09. Retrieved 2020-09-02.
  17. ^ FOAC (7 July 2017). "Sports in Uganda: Stadia in Uganda". Fortune of Africa.com (FOAC). Retrieved 7 July 2017.
  18. ^ Ngwomoya, Amos (28 March 2017). "How Hamis waved Museveni's order to take over Nakivubo land". Daily Monitor. Kampala. Retrieved 7 July 2017.
  19. ^ "History". FUFA: Federation of Uganda Football Associations. Retrieved 2024-05-31.
  20. ^ "Uganda Cranes: From using Inter Milan jerseys to powerful brand - Daily Monitor". monitor.co.ug. Retrieved 23 June 2020.
  21. ^ Nakivubo War Memorial Stadium Trust Act. 2000-12-31.
  22. ^ Reporter, Express (2021-06-16). "PICTORIAL: Tycoon Ham delivers update on the progress of Nakivubo Stadium construction". Daily Express. Retrieved 2025-01-01.
  23. ^ Namwanje, Salmah (2024-07-22). "Nakivubo war memorial stadium, a legacy of history". Nilepost News. Retrieved 2025-01-01.
  24. ^ Manishimwe, Wilson (6 March 2017). "FDC youth mull court action over leasing of Nakivubo land". New Vision. Kampala. Retrieved 7 July 2017.
  25. ^ Farahani Mukisa (30 March 2015). "Museveni gives away Nakivubo". Daily Monitor. Kampala, Uganda. Retrieved 7 July 2017.
  26. ^ Isabirye, David (2017-02-28). "Nakivubo stadium sealed off, terraces demolished". Kawowo Sports. Retrieved 2024-05-31.
  27. ^ "Nakivubo stadium sealed off as demolition starts". Monitor. 2021-01-15. Retrieved 2024-05-31.
  28. ^ Michael Dollar Kanaabi (4 December 2023). "New Ham Nakivubo stadium almost ready". Nile Post Uganda. Kampala, Uganda. Retrieved 11 December 2023.
  29. ^ New Vision (24 May 2024). "Countdown To Grand Opening of Nakivubo Stadium". New Vision. Kampala, Uganda. Retrieved 28 May 2024.
  30. ^ "Museveni to officially open Hamz Stadium Nakivubo". Charmar. 2023-12-05. Retrieved 2026-02-22.
  31. ^ Mujuni, Oscar Diego (2024-05-14). "Nakivubo Stadium Set for Grand Reopening on June 1st". NBS Sport. Retrieved 2024-05-31.
  32. ^ Nsubuga, Micheal (8 October 2024). "FIFA certify Hamz stadium playing turf". New vision. p. 40.
  33. ^ Uganda, TheSpy (2024-10-07). "Finally: FIFA Clears Hamz Nakivubo War Memorial Stadium To Host International Matches - TheSpy". Retrieved 2024-10-08.
  34. ^ "FIFA certifies Hamz Stadium Turf". PML Daily. 2024-10-08. Retrieved 2024-10-08.
  35. ^ "Hamz Stadium Nakivubo Opens Doors, Marking a New Dawn for Ugandan Sports and Entertainment – The Ankole Times". theankoletimes.co.ug. 6 June 2024. Retrieved 2024-06-06.
  36. ^ REPORTER, LILIAN MUWONGE | UG STANDARD (2024-06-06). "Hamz Stadium Nakivubo War Memorial Grounds Reopens in Grand Style". UG Standard - Latest News. Retrieved 2024-06-06.
  37. ^ Vibe, SPINERS (2024-06-06). "Hamz Stadium Nakivubo: A New Dawn For Ugandan Sports Culture And Entertainment | SPINERS". spiners.net. Retrieved 2024-06-06.
  38. ^ a b NINSIIMA, JULIAN (2024-06-06). "Uganda's Hamz Stadium Nakivubo officially opens its doors". PML Daily. Retrieved 2024-06-06.
  39. ^ a b Asiteza, Remmy (2024-06-06). "Hamz Stadium Nakivubo: A new dawn for Ugandan sports culture and entertainment". Daily Express. Retrieved 2024-06-06.
  40. ^ Buule, Kizito Moses (2024-10-07). "A New Era for Ugandan Football: FIFA President Certifies Hamz Nakivubo War Memorial Stadium". Watchdog Uganda. Retrieved 2024-11-22.
  41. ^ Nsubuga, Micheal (2024-10-08). "FIFA CERTIFIES HAMZ STADIUM TURF". New Vision. Retrieved 2024-11-22.
  42. ^ "What certification of Hamz stadium turf system means for Uganda". The Independent Uganda. 2024-10-10. Retrieved 2024-11-22.
  43. ^ Uganda, TheSpy (2024-02-21). "Uganda Is Proud Of You- First Lady Janet Museveni Commends Hamis Kiggundu For Investing In Nakivubo Stadium - TheSpy". Retrieved 2024-05-31.
  44. ^ Reporter, NewVision (2024-02-20). "Sports: First Lady praises Kiggundu for Nakivubo Stadium development". New Vision. Retrieved 2026-02-22.
  45. ^ "CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations". CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations. Retrieved 2024-12-29.
  46. ^ Buule, Kizito Moses (2024-03-08). "CAF Inspects Ham's Nakivubo Stadium Ahead of CHAN and AFCON 2027". Watchdog Uganda. Retrieved 2024-05-31.
  47. ^ Dollar, Michael Kanaabi (2023-12-04). "New Ham Nakivubo stadium almost ready". Nilepost News. Retrieved 2024-05-31.
  48. ^ "President Museveni commissions Nakivubo War Memorial Stadium". President Museveni commissions Nakivubo War Memorial Stadium | National Resistance Movement. Retrieved 2024-05-31.
  49. ^ "Stadium of the Year 2024". stadiumdb.com. Retrieved 2025-02-12.
  50. ^ Asiteza, Remmy (2025-02-06). "Hamz Stadium nominated in 2024 World Stadium of the Year Awards". Daily Express. Retrieved 2025-02-12.
  51. ^ Eye, Whisper (2025-02-12). "Hamz Stadium: A Beacon of Ugandan Football Nominated for Global Award". Whisper Eye. Retrieved 2025-02-12.
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