Hamz Nakivubo Memorial Stadium has been officially confirmed as the host venue for the upcoming East African Local Authorities Cultural Association (EALASCA) Games, scheduled to take place from February 23 to 28, 2025. The redeveloped stadium, now a state-of-the-art sports complex, will accommodate a mix of indoor and outdoor games, reinforcing Kampala’s status as a regional sports and cultural hub.
A State-of-the-Art Venue for a Major Regional Event
Kampala Minister Hajjat Minsa Kabanda and KCCA Executive Director Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki have commended Hajji Dr. Hamis Kiggundu for his transformative efforts in modernizing Hamz Nakivubo Memorial Stadium. The facility now meets international sports standards, featuring:
- A 35,000-seater stadium equipped for large-scale events
- VIP and VVIP sections for premium viewing
- Executive boxes for corporate and high-profile spectators
- Advanced floodlighting systems for evening competitions
- High-quality playing turf for football and athletics
- Comprehensive security and medical facilities
This modernization ensures that the stadium is fully prepared to host a wide variety of indoor and outdoor sporting events during the EALASCA Games.
Diverse Indoor and Outdoor Sporting Events
The EALASCA Games will bring together teams from Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, and South Sudan, offering a platform for sportsmanship, cultural exchange, and regional unity. The competition will feature:
Outdoor Games:
- Football
- Athletics (Track & Field events)
- Netball
- Basketball
- Handball
- Volleyball
Indoor Games:
- Table Tennis
- Chess
- Draughts
- Badminton
- Tennis
- Traditional African board games
Beyond sports, the EALASCA Games will also include cultural performances, celebrating East Africa’s rich traditions through music, dance, and storytelling.
Kampala Officials Applaud the Venue’s Readiness
Minister Hajjat Minsa Kabanda highlighted the stadium’s transformation, stating:
“This redevelopment is a milestone achievement. Hajji Kiggundu has not only revived this stadium but elevated it to international standards. With the EALASCA Games set to begin, we are confident that this facility will offer an outstanding experience for athletes, officials, and spectators.”
Similarly, KCCA Executive Director Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki praised the stadium’s role in Kampala’s urban development:
“Hamz Nakivubo Memorial Stadium is a game-changer. The level of investment and attention to detail in its renovation set a new benchmark for sports and entertainment venues. This facility will not only benefit Kampala but also strengthen Uganda’s capacity to host global sporting events.”
A Historic Occasion for Kampala
This marks the third time Kampala is hosting the EALASCA Games, reinforcing its status as a regional center for sports and cultural diplomacy. The event is expected to attract thousands of spectators and participants, fostering economic growth, tourism, and deeper regional ties.
With Hamz Nakivubo Memorial Stadium now fully equipped to host both indoor and outdoor competitions, expectations are high for a thrilling and memorable tournament that will leave a lasting impact on East Africa’s sports and cultural landscape.
