President Yoweri Museveni led the official inauguration of the Hamz Nakivubo Stadium in a momentous ceremony, heralding a new era for Ugandan sports and community development. The event highlighted the collaboration between government support and local entrepreneurship, symbolized by the vision of entrepreneur Hamis Kiggundu.
In his address, President Museveni lauded Hamis Kiggundu, popularly known as Ham, for his innovative contributions to national development. The stadium’s completion not only elevates Uganda’s international sports standing but also reflects the progress and potential of Ugandan businesses.
“The Hamz Nakivubo Stadium represents the capabilities and aspirations of Ugandan entrepreneurs,” remarked President Museveni, expressing his commitment to supporting Kiggundu’s initiatives, particularly the Ham Agro Processing Industries, aimed at advancing Uganda’s agricultural sector.
Kiggundu’s company played a pivotal role in transforming Nakivubo Stadium into a modern sports arena with enhanced amenities, increased seating capacity, and world-class athletic facilities. The commercial complex within the stadium is expected to generate revenue for further sports development and community engagement.
During the ceremony, Kiggundu emphasized the stadium’s broader impact beyond sports, envisioning it as a platform for talent nurturing, youth empowerment, and cultural promotion. Government officials, including State Minister for Sports Hon. Peter Ogwang and Executive Director for Kampala Dorothy Kisaka, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the stadium’s role in fostering sports excellence and community cohesion.
Minister Ogwang’s endorsement and enthusiasm for the stadium’s potential underscore the government’s strategic focus on sports infrastructure as a catalyst for economic growth and social progress. Kiggundu expressed gratitude for President Museveni’s longstanding support, noting its pivotal role in realizing the stadium project since its inception in 2014.
The Hamz Nakivubo Stadium is poised to host major sporting events like CHAN 2024 and AFCON 2027, showcasing Uganda’s capacity to host international tournaments and contribute to urban revitalization in Kampala. President Museveni’s endorsement reflects the government’s commitment to leveraging local entrepreneurship and infrastructure development for sustainable socio-economic advancement.
