Plans are underway to upgrade Kyabazinga Stadium, commonly known as Bugembe Stadium, into a modern sports complex with a proposed seating capacity of 20,000. Plans to redevelop the Stadium have drawn attention after an update was shared on social media by the kyabazinga of Busoga, William Wilberforce Gabula Nadiope IV, highlighting a government proposal to upgrade the facility.

The proposed redevelopment forms part of a broader national initiative led by the National Council of Sports to improve sports infrastructure across Uganda.

Officials say the project is intended to modernise the existing facility and expand opportunities for athletes in the Busoga sub-region and the wider eastern region.

Planned Facilities

According to Milton Chebet, Assistant General Secretary for Technical Affairs at the National Council of Sports, the redevelopment plan aims to transform the current stadium into a multi-sport complex.

The proposed facilities are expected to include a main stadium with a seating capacity of about 20,000 spectators, training grounds for athletes, and an athletics running track.

Plans also indicate the development of an indoor sports arena designed to host indoor sporting activities such as boxing, basketball and other court games.

Authorities say such facilities could help support the growth of professional and community sports in Eastern Uganda while providing improved infrastructure for competitions and training.

Focus on Eastern Uganda

Officials say the redevelopment of Kyabazinga Stadium is among projects being prioritised for Eastern Uganda alongside improvements planned for Mbale Stadium.

The projects are part of efforts to strengthen regional sports infrastructure and improve access to modern sporting facilities outside the capital.

Located in Jinja, Kyabazinga Stadium has long served as an important venue for football matches, athletics competitions and community sporting events in the Busoga region.

However, officials have indicated that the redevelopment could face challenges related to land surrounding the stadium.

According to Chebet, parts of the land designated for the sports complex may have been encroached upon by individuals who have constructed permanent houses.

Authorities say further assessment will be required to determine the extent of the encroachment and how it could affect the planned redevelopment.

It remains unclear whether any relocation or compensation arrangements would be considered if the land is required for the project.

A Key Sports Venue for Busoga

Kyabazinga Stadium is owned by the Busoga Kingdom and has historically hosted regional sporting events and local competitions.

Sports leaders in the region have previously emphasised the importance of upgrading the facility to support talent development and improve sports infrastructure for young athletes.

If implemented, the proposed upgrade could position the stadium as one of the major sports venues serving communities across Busoga and neighbouring districts.

Further details regarding the project timeline and construction phases are expected to be announced as the national sports infrastructure programme progresses.