Uganda on Friday July 25, 2025 launched the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, setting the stage for what leaders described as a new chapter in regional unity, youth development, and the country’s sports transformation.
Held at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, the colorful event brought together top government officials, sports leaders, and dignitaries in celebration of Uganda’s role as co-host of CHAN 2024 alongside Kenya and Tanzania.
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who officiated the launch, described sports as a tool for nation-building.
He said sports instill values like stamina, determination, and teamwork, which benefit both individuals and the nation.
“For the youth, sports offer a productive outlet. It draws them away from bad influences and channels their energy into purpose,” Museveni said. He added that Uganda’s co-hosting of CHAN 2024 under the East African Community (EAC) banner marked a significant move toward deeper regional integration.
The President cited the revival of Uganda’s sports sector as a major achievement under his government.
“When we came into power, we created peace and expanded education. Now, stadiums are being built, and sports have been boosted,” he said.
Museveni also said the tournament had inspired Uganda to act swiftly in upgrading infrastructure, including stadiums in Nakivubo, Hoima, and other key cities. “CHAN has provoked us—in a good way—to act, and we salute this pressure.”
‘A New Chapter’ – Janet Museveni
First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni, called the launch a symbolic fresh start. “This is a fresh page in a new book,” she said. “Football brings out the kind of joy that unites people across all divides.”
She emphasized the lasting legacy of the tournament, noting that upgraded stadiums like FUFA Kadiba, Wankulukuku, and Kyambogo would serve communities long after CHAN and AFCON.
She warmly welcomed visiting teams, including Algeria, Niger, Guinea, and South Africa, saying: “You can now call Uganda your home away from home.”
She concluded with gratitude to the President, the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, and CAF for their roles in securing Uganda’s place on the continental stage. “Just like God remembered the children of Israel, He has remembered Uganda.”
Regional and Local Support
The EAC Secretary General, H.E. Veronica M. Nduva, praised the launch as a milestone in regional collaboration. She pointed to the renovation of Mandela National Stadium and other infrastructure as signs of regional commitment.
Hon. Peter Ogwang, Minister of State for Sports, thanked President Museveni for his unwavering support. “Despite our frequent updates, you never lost interest,” he said, also appreciating the First Lady for her encouragement throughout the process.
FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo described the launch as emotional and historic. “Dreams do come true,” he said, crediting the passage of the National Sports Law and the President’s support for setting a strong foundation for Uganda’s sporting future.
With CHAN 2024 drawing near and AFCON 2027 in sight, Uganda is positioning itself as a continental sports hub—backed by policy, infrastructure, and growing regional cooperation. The spirit of “PAMOJA”—Together as One—echoed as the unifying theme throughout the ceremony.
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