Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania race against time to meet CHAN hosting standards

The postponement of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) offers Uganda a crucial opportunity to address existing gaps and enhance preparations for the tournament, now rescheduled to begin in August.

Originally slated for February 1-28, the delay was anticipated due to insufficient infrastructure readiness in the host nations—Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

This extension allows Uganda to collaborate with its counterparts to resolve outstanding issues while ensuring Kenya and Tanzania fulfill their obligations. Uganda, tasked with hosting only one group during the tournament, will focus on one main stadium and four training facilities. However, meeting CHAN’s hosting requirements extends beyond sports venues; it demands alignment with CAF standards across various government sectors.

CAF President Patrice Motsepe has expressed confidence in the commitment of Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania to successfully host CHAN. He emphasized that the tournament not only highlights regional talent but also demonstrates the dedication to nurturing homegrown players. 

“I am pleased that the three East African heads of state have shown strong commitment through infrastructure development and financial investment,” Motsepe stated. He believes this collective effort will ensure the necessary improvements are completed by August, with the technical committee granting clearance for the tournament to proceed as planned.

Motsepe’s remarks, made during the CHAN draws in Nairobi, underscored the importance of collaboration and investment in sports infrastructure. His optimism reflects a shared belief that the East African nations’ joint efforts will create an ideal environment for the tournament, showcasing the region’s rich football talent.

Key Areas for Improvement

Training Facilities
Three of the four training venues require significant upgrades to meet CAF standards:  

1. Wankulukuku Stadium: While dressing rooms are nearing completion, urgent work is needed on the drainage system to prevent waterlogging. Fan stands also require enhancements to ensure safety and comfort.  
2. Kampala International School Uganda (KISU): The pitch needs flattening to remove bumps and improve soil texture. Additionally, metallic goalposts should be replaced with aluminum movable ones for player safety.  
3. Kadiba Stadium: This venue demands the most extensive work, including upgrading the playing surface, widening access roads, and improving dressing rooms. Close consultation with CAF is essential to ensure compliance.  

Road Infrastructure
The CAF technical committee has called for improvements to Uganda’s transport network, particularly roads connecting key tournament sites such as training facilities, the main stadium, and hospitals. Immediate action is required to avoid disruptions on match days or during emergencies.  

Specific measures include widening the road from the bypass to KISU and Kadiba, as well as enhancing traffic control. The Ministry of Works and Transport must take a proactive role in implementing these upgrades efficiently.  

Hospitality
The hotel industry must meet CAF standards to accommodate teams, fans, and officials. The Ministry of Tourism should enforce strict supervision and conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance.  

Healthcare
The Ministry of Health must ensure Mulago Hospital, the designated primary medical facility, is equipped to handle sports-related emergencies. This includes staffing the hospital with personnel trained to manage such situations effectively.  

The postponement of CHAN presents both a challenge and an opportunity for Uganda. By addressing shortcomings in training facilities, road infrastructure, hospitality, and healthcare, the three host nations can position themselves to deliver a successful tournament in August.

Collaborative efforts across government sectors will be vital to meeting all requirements on time, ultimately showcasing the region’s commitment to hosting a world-class sporting event.