Kampala, Uganda – Ugandan football has reached a historic milestone as Hamz Stadium Nakivubo War Memorial has been officially granted CAF Category 2 status, making it eligible to host some of Africa’s most prestigious football tournaments. This recognition by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) places Uganda firmly on the map as a key player in the continent’s football scene.
A Stadium Reborn: Uganda Joins Africa’s Football Elite
Following its grand reopening on June 1, 2024, Hamz Stadium underwent a rigorous CAF inspection in November 2024 to ensure it met the highest international standards. Passing this evaluation means Uganda can now host major CAF and FIFA-sanctioned competitions, attracting top-tier teams, international fans, and global media attention.
Major Tournaments Set for Hamz Stadium
The approval paves the way for Uganda to host elite continental tournaments, including:
✅ Women’s African Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Qualifiers
✅ Men’s U17, U20, and U23 AFCON Qualifiers & Final Tournaments
✅ Men’s CAF Champions League Preliminary Rounds
✅ Men’s Confederation Cup Preliminary Rounds
This milestone extends beyond hosting rights—it’s a step toward elevating Ugandan football, giving homegrown talent the opportunity to shine on an international platform and allowing fans to experience world-class football on home soil.
FIFA Certification Elevates Stadium to Global Standards
The stadium’s global credibility was further boosted on October 7, 2024, when FIFA President Gianni Infantino personally certified its playing turf. This recognition places Hamz Stadium among the top football venues worldwide, solidifying its reputation as a high-standard sporting facility.
Adding to this achievement, Hamz Stadium was nominated for the Global Awards, a reflection of its state-of-the-art infrastructure, advanced facilities, and commitment to delivering an exceptional football experience.
Uganda’s Football Revolution Begins
With both CAF and FIFA approvals, Hamz Stadium Nakivubo is set to become a hub for African football, welcoming international teams, passionate fans, and world-class tournaments. This recognition not only enhances Uganda’s status in global football but also fosters economic growth, increases tourism, and creates opportunities for local players to compete at the highest level.
For football enthusiasts, this means top-tier football action is finally coming home! Fans can now witness international matches, support their favorite teams, and enjoy the electrifying atmosphere of high-stakes competitions—all within Uganda’s newly certified premier stadium.
