Namboole and Nakivubo Stadium bring new optimism

Almost five years ago when Namboole Stadium was deemed unfit to host international games, many Ugandans felt that they were going to be left behind in terms of football development and qualifying for prestigious events. 

The fear was not just about losing Namboole alone but also the fact that there were not many stadiums that would fill that much of a void. St Mary’s Kitende which was Uganda’s only hope for hosting Uganda Cranes games could only do what was in its capacity. 

The only Stadium that would have done much compared to what Namboole was offering was Nakivuubo but there were no signs of completion and being ready to host games at that particular time, also considering that it was under construction for over a decade. 

As Namboole opened last month for Uganda Premier League matches (BUL versus Vipers and KCCA versus SC Villa), it gave ground for optimism, many Ugandans were excited about the reopening of Uganda’s heart of football stadium. 

Before the Namboole test matches, Nakivubo stadium was finally commissioned by President Museveni on April 25, 2024, a multi-purpose facility that will not only perform its core duties of hosting football matches but will give access to a wide range of other sports disciplines like Netball, Basketball, Boxing, gym facilities and an executive area for hanging out. 

This approach is a real plus point for Nakivubo and Ugandans at large, as it will have a holistic positive impact and long-lasting legacy through a variety of events they will be able to host over time. 

That was evident on Saturday, June 1, 2024, as Navivubo opened the facilities to the public to finally feel the newly redeveloped stadium.

Events like football matches between UPL 2023/2024 champions SC Villa and  Express that had lost their aura amongst its enthusiasts was ignited by the prospect of inspiring new love for their traditional fans that attended in numbers.

Additionally, having one of the most exciting teams in Kitara on the cards taking on URA was a major plus.

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The aspect of Namboole hosting two of Uganda Cranes' 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Botswana and Algeria this month is a glimmer of hope.

However, the reality is, that hosting a few events at the reopening of both Namboole and Hamz Nakivubo Memorial Stadium does not give us a clear picture but Ugandans should be optimistic about what the future holds.