Hamz Stadium achieves CAF Category 2 status, joins Africa’s elite football venues
The confirmation was communicated by CAF’s Director of Tournaments and Events, Samson Adamu, to FUFA CEO Edgar Watson, officially recognizing Hamz Stadium as a key venue for continental football.
Hamz Stadium achieves CAF Category 2 status, joins Africa’s elite football venues
Shafik Ssenoga
Journalist @New Vision
Hamz Stadium Nakivubo War Memorial has been elevated to CAF Category 2 status, solidifying its place among Africa’s premier football venues.
This milestone comes after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) approved the stadium to host prestigious continental tournaments, a remarkable achievement for a facility that was reopened just nine months ago on June 1, 2024.
The confirmation was communicated by CAF’s Director of Tournaments and Events, Samson Adamu, to FUFA CEO Edgar Watson, officially recognizing Hamz Stadium as a key venue for continental football.
With this new status, Uganda can now host high-profile tournaments such as WAFCON Qualifiers, youth AFCON tournaments (U17, U20, U23), and the preliminary rounds of the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup. This development not only enhances the stadium’s reputation but also strengthens Uganda’s ability to host international fixtures, reducing reliance on Namboole Stadium.
Rogers Mulindwa, Chairman of the Hamz Stadium Nakivubo Management Committee, highlighted the critical support from President Yoweri Museveni, Minister of Education and Sports Maama Janet Kataha Museveni, State Minister for Sports Hon. Peter Ogwang, and FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo. Their unwavering commitment has been instrumental in elevating Ugandan football and achieving this prestigious status.
“We are committed to serving Ugandans and the world with the highest levels of professionalism,” Mulindwa stated.
The stadium’s rise to prominence was further cemented when FIFA President Gianni Infantino personally certified its playing turf on October 7, 2024. This certification ensures that Nakivubo meets FIFA’s highest standards, making it eligible to host top-tier international matches.
Additionally, the stadium’s nomination for the Global Awards as one of the best stadiums worldwide underscores its state-of-the-art facilities and commitment to excellence. This recognition could attract more international tournaments, high-profile club friendlies, and increased investment in Ugandan football.
Since its reopening, Hamz Stadium Nakivubo has already hosted significant events, including the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers, the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) Qualifiers between Uganda and Burundi, and the CAF U-17 AFCON CECAFA Qualifiers. These events demonstrate the stadium’s growing importance in regional and international football.
The rapid rise of Hamz Stadium Nakivubo as a top-tier football venue is a testament to Uganda’s commitment to advancing the sport and providing world-class facilities for players and fans alike.