Cranes get sh5.2b shot in the arm for CHAN preps

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The government, through the National Council of Sports (NCS), has disbursed sh5.2 billion to the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) to support the Uganda Cranes’ preparations for the CHAN 2024 tournament.

The funding is specifically allocated to help the Cranes get ready for the much-anticipated championship, which Uganda will co-host with Kenya and Tanzania this August.

FUFA’s third vice president, Decolas Kizza, was reluctant to disclose the full details of the government’s financial support but confirmed that preparations are already underway.

“As the season winds up, the coaching staff will be summoning the team for training, and a comprehensive programme will be drawn up for the team's preparations,” Kizza told Vision Sport.

While co-hosting the tournament is a source of national pride, there is a strong emphasis on improving performance. Despite qualifying for seven consecutive editions of CHAN, the Cranes have never advanced beyond the round of 16.

Uganda has been drawn into Group C alongside Guinea and Niger, with two additional teams yet to be confirmed.

In addition to the team-specific funds, the government has allocated a massive sh350 billion budget for Uganda’s broader role as CHAN 2024 co-host.

This funding has already facilitated major upgrades to key venues, including Mandela National Stadium (Namboole) and training facilities such as Muteesa II Stadium in Wankulukuku, Kyambogo University grounds, and Kadiba Stadium — all of which are undergoing extensive renovations in preparation for the tournament.

Hosting the CHAN tournament is expected to serve as a precursor to the 2027 AFCON, and the government’s timely release of funds for both infrastructure and team preparations signals its serious commitment to developing the sports sector.