Museveni launches CHAN 2024, praises First Lady for securing hosting rights

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has commended the team led by First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Janet K. Museveni, for successfully bidding to host the African Nations Championship (CHAN) and the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finals, in partnership with the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

Speaking during the official launch of CHAN 2024 at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds on Friday, President Museveni expressed gratitude to CAF for what he termed as “positive pressure” that has inspired Uganda to invest more in sports infrastructure.

“These occasional stimuli push us to a higher level,” Museveni said. “CAF told us we needed at least three international-standard stadiums. We already have Namboole, we worked with Kiggundu on Nakivubo, and initially considered Akii-Bua Stadium. However, CAF required proximity to an international airport. That’s how we opted to build the new Hoima Stadium, which is near an International Airport.”

He added that additional stadiums and facilities will follow, emphasizing that funding is available. 

"What we need is focus. This positive pressure is helping us build infrastructure that will benefit the country for generations.”

The launch was attended by several dignitaries including First Lady Janet Museveni, Vice President Jessica Alupo, Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa, State Minister for Sports Peter Ogwang, FUFA President Moses Magogo, and members of the Local Organising Committee.

In her remarks, Mrs. Museveni urged Ugandans to embrace CHAN 2024 as a moment of national pride and reflection on how far the country has come.

“This tournament represents the stability and progress Uganda has achieved under President Museveni’s leadership,” she said. “To co-host with our brothers and sisters from Kenya and Tanzania is a testament to how far we’ve come from the dark days of instability.”

She extended a warm welcome to the teams that will play their group matches in Uganda. “I welcome our brothers from South Africa, Niger, Guinea, and Algeria. Feel at home, because you are now at home.”

President Museveni also highlighted the economic and tourism potential the tournament brings. “When visitors come for CHAN, they’ll see that Uganda is a beautiful and peaceful destination. Many of them will want to return.”

The launch event was also attended by Uganda Cranes legends such as Tom Lwanga, Edgar Watson, Paul Ssali, Hassan Wasswa, Steven Bengo, Simeone Masaba, among others.

CHAN 2024 will officially kick off on August 2 in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, with the host nation facing Burkina Faso at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.