Clive Kyazze, the General Secretary of the Uganda Sports Press Association (USPA), has revealed that a portion of the approved Shs97 billion designated for the refurbishment of Namboole Stadium was diverted to compensate and relocate the guardian of the Omusambwa (witch-doctor) Namboole, a spiritual figure.
Kyazze emphasized that this action was taken to facilitate the smooth progress of the renovation project, as confirmed by Lt Col PS Kidemuka, the UPDF Project Engineer overseeing the stadium’s reconstruction.
The backstory surrounding Namboole Stadium involves the belief that it was inhabited by a ghost (Muswamba), with its dwelling on Namboole Hill, the current site of Mandela National Stadium. Kyazze noted that every ghost has a custodian, and the relocation of Namboole’s custodian through compensation raises uncertainty about their return once the renovation is completed.
In a recent development, Speaker of Parliament Anita Among Magogo conducted an inspection of the ongoing renovation works at Mandela National Stadium. Joined by State Minister for Sports Peter Ogwang, selected legislators, and FUFA officials, they received a guided tour from contractors of the UPDF Engineering Brigade.
The stadium’s renovation has been a focal point in parliamentary sessions, with concerns raised by the Speaker regarding persistent delays despite the allocated funds. Minister Ogwang attributed the delays to the outstanding payment of the remaining Shs17 billion, yet to be disbursed by the Ministry of Finance. However, the State Minister for Finance (Planning), Amos Lugolobi, assured that the funds would be transferred by the following Monday.
With Uganda Cranes scheduled to host the next World Cup qualifiers in June, concerns have arisen as CAF refused to approve Namboole Stadium for the upcoming fixtures due to various issues. These include lighting, technical bench, media tribunal, dressing rooms, and the stadium clock.
Mandela National Stadium, inaugurated in 1997 with a capacity of 35,000, serves as the home ground for Uganda’s national football team. Despite being constructed over two decades ago, the stadium has not undergone significant renovations, prompting concerns about its suitability.
In 2020, CAF deemed the stadium unfit to host international matches, leading to a ban. Various deficiencies were identified, necessitating urgent attention to meet the standards set by both CAF and FIFA.
As a result, Uganda has resorted to hosting African Nations Cup and World Cup qualifying games in other countries, highlighting the pressing need for comprehensive renovations at Namboole Stadium.
