The construction of the Akii-Bua Olympic Stadium in Lira City is progressing steadily, marking a significant step in Uganda’s sports infrastructure development.
The 20,000-seater stadium is being built by SAMCO National Construction Company, which began work in December 2024, shortly after signing the contract at State House. The project was officially launched in January 2025, with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni presiding over the groundbreaking ceremony.
Currently, major milestones have been achieved. About 85% of the earthworks are complete, and 437 of the required 872 reinforced piles have already been installed. Ongoing works include the erection of reinforced columns and footings, along with pile testing.
According to the contractor, approximately 10% of the total project has so far been completed. Around 60% of the construction equipment is already on site, and over 30 subcontractors are actively engaged in the works.
The stadium is part of a larger sports complex designed to meet international standards. In addition to the main 20,000-seat stadium with an eight-lane track, the project will also feature a 2,000-seat multi-sport indoor arena, a 25-meter semi-Olympic swimming pool, outdoor courts for basketball, netball, volleyball, and badminton, as well as a parking facility with capacity for 1,000 vehicles.
Once completed, the Akii-Bua Olympic Stadium is expected to transform Lira into a hub for athletics and multi-sport activities, honouring the legacy of Uganda’s first Olympic gold medalist, John Akii-Bua.
