Nakivubo Stadium

Coordinates: 0°18′42″N 32°34′25″E / 0.311667°N 32.573611°E / 0.311667; 32.573611
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Hamz Stadium
Hamz Stadium is located in Kampala
Hamz Stadium
Hamz Stadium
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
OperatorHamis Kiggundu[1][2]
Capacity35,000[3]
Construction
Opened1 April 1926 (1926-04-01)
Renovated1954, 2013, 2017
Demolished28 February 2017[2] (Reopened 25 April 2024)[3]
Construction costUS$200,000,000
ArchitectChristopher Omara (Bwap Studios)
Tenants
Simba FC
KCCA FC
Website
https://hamzstadium.com

Hamz Stadium, formerly referred to as Nakivubo Stadium at Nakivubo War Memorial Grounds, is a multi-purpose stadium in Kampala, Uganda.[4][5] Following extensive renovations led by businessman Hamis Kiggundu in partnership with the Ugandan government, the stadium has been upgraded to international standards. It is slated to host significant events like AFCON2027 and CHAN 2024.[6] which will mark a new chapter in Uganda's sporting and community landscape. It was previously used mostly for football matches and served as the home venue of SC Villa. The stadium had a capacity of about 21,000 people, [7] but upon partial completion of the renovations started in 2017, President Museveni commissioned the stadium on 25 April 2024.[8]It will have a total seating capacity of 35,000 people upon final completion.[9][10]

Location[edit]

The stadium is located in the Central Business District of Kampala City at Nakivubo War Memorial Grounds, surrounded by Ham Shopping Grounds,[11] within a walking distance from the New Taxi Park.[12] 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).[13]

History[edit]

Early Development

Originally established in 1926 on land donated by the Kabaka of Buganda at the time, Nakivubo Stadium was built to commemorate Ugandan soldiers who died in the Second World War.[1] It hosted its first match on 1 April 1926 between the Uganda National Team and the Under-18 National team of Uganda.[14]

It became a central venue for football in Uganda, hosting various local and international matches.[15] However, by the early 21st century, the stadium had fallen into disrepair, reflecting the broader challenges of maintaining public infrastructure in Kampala.[16]

Renovation and Modernization[edit]

In 2015, Ham Enterprises, led by Hamis Kiggundu, collaborated with the Ugandan government to renovate and modernize the stadium.[17] In 2017, all the deteriorated structures were completely demolished, paving the way for the initiation of new construction works.[18] [19] 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.[20] The renovated stadium was commissioned by Yoweri Museveni, the Ugandan Head of State on 25 April 2024.[3] 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[21] and other added modern facilities, with a total investment nearing US$200 million.

Features and Facilities

The upgraded stadium includes a FIFA-standard football pitch, athletics tracks, a basketball court, and a boxing ring. It also features enhanced amenities like VIP lounges, executive boxes, and modern health and emergency services.[22]

Economic and Community Impact

The renovation of Hamz Nakivubo Stadium has contributed to local economic growth, creating jobs and boosting businesses in the surrounding area. It is expected to attract international events, further enhancing its economic impact.[23]

Symbol of National Pride

The new stadium stands as a testament to Ugandan resilience and ambition, embodying the country's ability to achieve greatness through unity and hard work.[24] It has become a source of national pride, not only for its architectural grandeur but also for the opportunities it represents for future generations.[23][25]

Future Events[edit]

Hamz Nakivubo Stadium is set to host major sporting events, including AFCON 2027 and CHAN 2024, highlighting Uganda's capacity to organize international sports competitions.[26]

Cultural Significance[edit]

The stadium is not only a sports venue but also a symbol of national pride and development, reflecting Uganda's aspirations and achievements in sports and infrastructure.[27]

Governance[edit]

The stadium is owned by the Ugandan government but was leased to the Ham Enterprises to manage and operate it for 49-years[28][29] [30]

Controversies[edit]

The renovation project faced initial skepticism and resistance from local communities and market vendors, concerned about the potential loss of heritage and public space.[31][32]

A Model for African Development

The project exemplifies the potential for African nations to harness local investment and leadership in creating facilities that can compete on a global stage. It serves as an inspirational model for other countries in the region, demonstrating the viability of self-reliant development in achieving modernization and global participation.

The stadium not only stands as a physical landmark but also as a beacon of hope, inspiring future generations to dream big and work tirelessly towards realizing those dreams.[33][34][35]

References[edit]

  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. ^ a b c Joseph Mutebi (25 April 2024). "President Museveni Commissions Nakivubo Stadium". New Vision. Kampala, Uganda. Retrieved 25 April 2024.
  4. ^ Kabayo, Simon (2024-02-21). "First Lady impressed by Hamz Nakivubo stadium construction". Eagle Online. Retrieved 2024-03-19.
  5. ^ Newsz, Charmar (2023-12-05). "Museveni to officially open Hamz Stadium Nakivubo". Charmar. Retrieved 2024-03-19.
  6. ^ Mbabazi, Hannington (2024-03-08). "TOP STORY! CAF Impressed By Hamz Nakivubo Stadium Ahead of CHAN, AFCON 2027". Thecapital Times. Retrieved 2024-03-19.
  7. ^ SMC (2013). "Nakivubo Stadium renovations almost complete". London: Stadia-magazine.com (SMC). Retrieved 7 July 2017.
  8. ^ PPU (2024-04-25). "President Museveni Commissions Nakivubo War Memorial Stadium". State House Uganda. Retrieved 2024-05-08.
  9. ^ M, Patrick (2020-12-01). "Nakivubo Stadium/Nakivubo War Memorial Stadium in Kampala, Uganda". Constructionreview. Retrieved 2024-05-08.
  10. ^ "Nakivubo Stadium construction phase one nears completion". New Vision. Retrieved 2024-05-08.
  11. ^ KAMOGA, JONATHAN. "Ham's shopping grounds create mixed feelings". The Observer - Uganda. Retrieved 2020-09-02.
  12. ^ FOAC (7 July 2017). "Sports in Uganda: Stadia in Uganda". Fortune of Africa.com (FOAC). Retrieved 7 July 2017.
  13. ^ Ngwomoya, Amos (28 March 2017). "How Hamis waved Museveni's order to take over Nakivubo land". Daily Monitor. Kampala. Retrieved 7 July 2017.
  14. ^ "History". FUFA: Federation of Uganda Football Associations. Retrieved 2024-05-31.
  15. ^ "Uganda Cranes: From using Inter Milan jerseys to powerful brand - Daily Monitor". monitor.co.ug. Retrieved 23 June 2020.
  16. ^ Manishimwe, Wilson (6 March 2017). "FDC youth mull court action over leasing of Nakivubo land". New Vision. Kampala. Retrieved 7 July 2017.
  17. ^ Farahani Mukisa (30 March 2015). "Museveni gives away Nakivubo". Daily Monitor. Kampala, Uganda. Retrieved 7 July 2017.
  18. ^ Isabirye, David (2017-02-28). "Nakivubo stadium sealed off, terraces demolished". Kawowo Sports. Retrieved 2024-05-31.
  19. ^ "Nakivubo stadium sealed off as demolition starts". Monitor. 2021-01-15. Retrieved 2024-05-31.
  20. ^ Michael Dollar Kanaabi (4 December 2023). "New Ham Nakivubo stadium almost ready". Nile Post Uganda. Kampala, Uganda. Retrieved 11 December 2023.
  21. ^ New Vision (24 May 2024). "Countdown To Grand Opening of Nakivubo Stadium". New Vision. Kampala, Uganda. Retrieved 28 May 2024.
  22. ^ Mujuni, Oscar Diego (2024-05-14). "Nakivubo Stadium Set for Grand Reopening on June 1st". NBS Sport. Retrieved 2024-05-31.
  23. ^ a b 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.
  24. ^ Nagirinya, Vanessa (2024-05-30). "Nakivubo Reopening: Golola Praises Ham, Urges Government Support for Sports Infrastructure". NBS Sport. Retrieved 2024-05-31.
  25. ^ Bernard, Musinguzi (2024-04-25). "Nakivubo Stadium is a Welcome Addition to Kampala's Skyline – Dorothy Kisaka". NBS Sport. Retrieved 2024-05-31.
  26. ^ Buule, Kizito Moses (2024-03-08). "CAF Inspects Ham's Nakivubo Stadium Ahead of CHAN and AFCON 2027". Watchdog Uganda. Retrieved 2024-05-31.
  27. ^ REDPEPPER, Our Reporter | (2024-05-26). "JUST ASKING: Has Nakivubo War Memorial Stadium Permanently Changed to Hamz Stadium?". ONLINE. Retrieved 2024-05-31.
  28. ^ Asiteza, Remmy (2024-04-26). "Tycoon Ham given 49-year-lease to manage Nakivubo Stadium". Daily Express. Retrieved 2024-05-31.
  29. ^ "PRESIDENT MUSEVENI COMMISSIONS NAKIVUBO WAR MEMORIAL STADIUM | Uganda Media Centre". www.mediacentre.go.ug. Retrieved 2024-05-31.
  30. ^ Kazibwe, Kenneth (2024-05-14). "Nakivubo Stadium grand opening set for next month". Nilepost News. Retrieved 2024-05-31.
  31. ^ Dollar, Michael Kanaabi (2023-12-04). "New Ham Nakivubo stadium almost ready". Nilepost News. Retrieved 2024-05-31.
  32. ^ "President Museveni commissions Nakivubo War Memorial Stadium". President Museveni commissions Nakivubo War Memorial Stadium | National Resistance Movement. Retrieved 2024-05-31.
  33. ^ "Museveni Unveils Nakivubo War Memorial Stadium | The Kampala Post". kampalapost.com. Retrieved 2024-05-31.
  34. ^ Staff, N. S. (2024-02-22). "HAMZ NAKIVUBO STADIUM DEVELOPMENT WORKS BY HAMIS KIGGUNDU STUNNED FIRST LADY". Nyongesa Sande. Retrieved 2024-05-31.
  35. ^ Serumaga, David (2023-08-01). "Uganda: Ham Kiggundu's Visionary Investment Elevates Uganda's Sports Landscape". Nile Post. Retrieved 2024-05-31.

External links[edit]

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