Mandela National Stadium, commonly known as Namboole, is set for a second phase of renovations, scheduled to commence in September following the Uganda Cranes’ FIFA World Cup Qualifier against Somalia.
The project, aimed at modernising the stadium to meet international standards, will be overseen by MS Summa, the Turkish construction company behind the state-of-the-art Hoima City Stadium. This marks a transition from the UPDF engineering brigade, which handled the first phase of the renovation.
During the renovation period, Namboole will be temporarily closed, with Uganda’s national team engagements shifting to the Hoima Stadium, expected to be completed in time to accommodate these events.
The upgrades will introduce major structural and functional enhancements, including the expansion of the Presidential Suite to accommodate nine heads of state, refurbishment of VIP lounges, an increase in seating capacity from 38,000 to over 40,000, construction of a new Media Tribune and mixed zone, relocation of dressing rooms to the western side of the stadium, comprehensive roof works, and the addition of a multi-purpose indoor arena.
These improvements are part of Uganda’s preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), ensuring the stadium meets global standards while providing an enhanced experience for players, spectators, and dignitaries alike.
Following the completion of the stadium’s second phase, MS Summa is expected to spearhead a major overhaul of the Lugogo Sports Complex.
MS Summa, known for delivering high-quality infrastructure projects across Africa, brings a wealth of experience to the renovation. The company previously constructed the Kigali Arena in Rwanda, East Africa’s largest indoor stadium with a 10,000-seat capacity, completed in 2019.
