Uganda will avoid the high financial burden typically associated with hosting major tournament ceremonies after being exempted from organizing the opening and closing events of the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN).
As one of three co-hosts of CHAN 2025, alongside Kenya and Tanzania, Uganda has been allocated a streamlined role: hosting selected group-stage matches and the third-place playoff at the recently refurbished Mandela National Stadium in Namboole. Meanwhile, Tanzania will host the opening ceremony and match, while Kenya has been designated to stage the final and closing ceremony.
This arrangement means Uganda will not incur the often substantial costs linked to staging large-scale ceremonial events—such as live entertainment, international guest management, security logistics, and production expenses.
“This is a strategic relief for us. We are able to focus more on competition readiness and infrastructure, rather than spending resources on grand ceremonies.”
a Local Organising Committee (LOC) member
Focus Shifts to Infrastructure and Match Delivery
Uganda’s hosting duties are now centered around competition management, infrastructure upgrades, and match-day logistics. The government has already committed UGX 350 billion toward CHAN 2025 preparations, a significant portion of which is going into stadium renovations, roads, and training facilities.
The centerpiece of Uganda’s hosting effort is Mandela National Stadium, which recently reopened after a comprehensive facelift. Additional work is underway at training grounds including Wankulukuku, KCCA’s Lugogo ground, and Kyambogo University, all of which are expected to meet CAF standards by the start of the tournament.
Affordable Access for Fans
The LOC has also promised fan-friendly ticket pricing, confirming that ordinary tickets could cost as little as UGX 3,600 (about $1). VIP and VVIP ticket prices are expected to remain below UGX 12,000, ensuring wide accessibility for Ugandan football fans.
Strategic Win for Uganda
Uganda’s exclusion from hosting the opening and closing ceremonies may appear symbolic, but financially, it is a notable win. Ceremonial events often require millions in investment for short-lived but high-visibility moments. By avoiding these, Uganda can concentrate its efforts and resources on delivering a smooth tournament experience for teams and fans.
The CHAN 2025 tournament, organized by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), features national teams made up exclusively of players competing in their domestic leagues. It will serve as both a test run for Uganda’s broader football ambitions and a critical rehearsal ahead of AFCON 2027, which Uganda will also co-host with Kenya and Tanzania.