The long-anticipated construction of the Akii-Bua Stadium in Lira City has officially begun. In a ceremony held today, the construction site was handed over to SAMCO National Construction Company from Egypt, signaling the start of the $129 million project, which is set to be completed within 20 months.
The state-of-the-art facility will boast a 20,000-seat stadium, training grounds, an indoor arena, a swimming pool, outdoor courts, and ample parking. Spanning 18.455 hectares in Erute, Lira City East Division, the project seeks to honor John Akii-Bua, Uganda’s first Olympic gold medalist, while promoting sports development across northern Uganda.
Presiding as Guest of Honor, Hon. Hamson Obua, Government Chief Whip and MP of Ajuri County, acknowledged President Yoweri Museveni’s pivotal role in advancing the project.
“To the contractor, the Government of Uganda has a policy called BUBU (Buy Uganda Build Uganda). In subcontracting, I urge you to engage local contractors to provide employment opportunities for our sons and daughters,” Hon. Obua emphasized.
The Ugandan government has allocated UGX 100 billion to kickstart the project. Ownership of the stadium’s land has been transferred to the National Council of Sports (NCS), ensuring the initiative’s smooth progress.
Lira District Chairperson RCM Okello Orik noted the challenges faced in securing the project’s land title but lauded efforts by NCS General Secretary Dr. Ogwel Bernard and other stakeholders for their persistence. “I call upon the business community in Lira to seize this opportunity for regional development,” he added.
Lira City Mayor Sam Atul urged the contractor to prioritize timely completion. “Building on the success of recent infrastructure projects like the Karuma Bridge renovation, we expect nothing less than excellence for Akii-Bua Stadium,” he said.
The modern facility will cater to 12 different sports disciplines, serving as a hub for both indoor and outdoor activities. Leaders and residents alike hope the project will boost sports, tourism, and economic growth in northern Uganda.
ENDS
