Share this article

The newly reconstructed Nakivubo War Memorial Stadium, now rebranded as Hamz Stadium Nakivubo Memorial, has reached a major milestone following the certification of its playing turf by FIFA.

With FIFA’s accreditation of its playing surface, the recently rebuilt Nakivubo War Memorial Stadium now known as Hamz Stadium Nakivubo Memorial has achieved a significant milestone.

This prestigious certification, signed by Infantino himself, marks a new chapter in the stadium’s storied history and elevates it to international standards, ready to host world-class football events.

The global football governing body awarded the certification under its “FIFA Quality Programme for Football Turf,” confirming the stadium’s readiness to host world-class football matches.

The certificate, valid from October 4 to October 3, 2027, confirms that the DuoFilament Mono football turf system, installed by Nurteks Hali San.ve Tic. A.S., meets FIFA standards for quality and performance.

It is one tick on the box but many remain because for Nakivubo to pass the test of hosting international games, it must be certified as having adequate accessibility and security.

These two aspects are particularly tough and the key reason St Mary’s Stadium Kitende keeps getting the boot from FIFA as access to the facility is not secure.

The Nakivubo War Memorial Stadium, one of Uganda’s oldest and most historic sports venues, has undergone an extensive reconstruction project over the past few years.

Originally built in 1926 and officially opened by Uganda’s colonial administration in 1954, Nakivubo Stadium has been the site of numerous memorable sporting events, including international football matches, athletics, and boxing competitions.

However, the stadium had fallen into disrepair and required a complete overhaul to meet modern standards.

The Ugandan government, in partnership with Ham Enterprises, launched the ambitious project to rebuild Nakivubo into a state-of-the-art multi-purpose sports complex.

The stadium’s reconstruction has been part of a larger effort to boost the country’s sports infrastructure, with the aim of attracting international competitions and fostering the growth of local sports talent.

Over the past few years, construction has involved the installation of modern facilities, including the now FIFA-certified turf.

The FIFA certification comes at a crucial time when Uganda is positioning itself as a regional sports hub.

With the new turf meeting international standards, Nakivubo Stadium is expected to become a venue for top-tier competitions, including international football tournaments, continental club matches, and even training camps for national teams.

Ham Enterprises, under the leadership of tycoon Hamis Kiggundu, has played a pivotal role in the reconstruction, investing heavily in the project.

The new stadium promises to offer not just a world-class sports venue but also opportunities for local vendors and businesses to thrive, further contributing to the economy.

With a seating capacity of 35,000, the newly certified Hamz Stadium Nakivubo Memorial is now fully equipped to host major sports events, and the FIFA certification signals its readiness to contribute to Uganda’s growing sports culture.

The redevelopment of Nakivubo has brought hope to football fans and sports enthusiasts across the country, with many now eagerly awaiting the official reopening of the stadium and the announcement of upcoming events.

Uganda’s Ministry of Sports and various sports associations have lauded the certification, calling it a significant step toward positioning the country as a hub for sporting excellence.

The Nakivubo Stadium, with its rich history and fresh, modern facilities, is set to once again become a central stage for Uganda’s sporting aspirations.

This milestone also opens up the possibility of Uganda hosting more international sports events, further solidifying its place on the global sports map.