After years of uncertainty, the long-awaited redevelopment of Kampala’s iconic Lugogo Sports Complex has finally gained momentum, with construction set to begin soon. Bernard Ogwel, General Secretary of Uganda’s National Council of Sports (NCS), confirmed the timeline in an exclusive interview, providing clarity on the project’s budget, timeline, and objectives.
The first phase of the project involves relocating current users of the 63-year-old complex to allow contractors to begin work. The redevelopment, estimated to cost Sh790 billion, is expected to take two years to complete. Officials emphasized the government’s commitment to modernizing Uganda’s sports infrastructure through this initiative.
The project gained significant traction last year after President Yoweri Museveni endorsed the plans and engaged directly with Summa, the Turkish construction firm overseeing the overhaul. The government’s dedication was further reinforced when First Lady Janet Museveni formalized the transfer of a 0.3185-hectare land title at Plot 10 Hesketh Bell Road, part of the Lugogo complex, during a ceremony at State House Nakasero. Lands Ministry Permanent Secretary Dorcas Okalanyi facilitated the handover.
Once completed, the modernized complex is projected to generate Sh85 billion annually in revenue, serving as a critical income stream for the government while enhancing Uganda’s ability to host regional and international events.
The redesigned Lugogo Sports Complex will include two state-of-the-art indoor arenas, an Olympic-standard swimming pool, a renovated hockey pitch with modern facilities, a gymnasium, NCS offices, and two hotels to accommodate athletes and visitors.
The redevelopment marks a pivotal step in Uganda’s efforts to upgrade its sports infrastructure. By replacing the aging complex, a relic from the 1960s, the project aims to attract high-profile tournaments, nurture local talent, and boost tourism. Officials stress that the initiative is not merely about constructing buildings but about creating a lasting legacy for Ugandan athletes and positioning the country as a regional sports hub.
With construction timelines now confirmed, stakeholders anticipate the new Lugogo Sports Complex will soon symbolize Uganda’s sporting ambition and economic advancement.