Uganda Prepares for CHAN 2024: Challenges and Progress

Uganda CHAN Preparations: Challenges, Progress, and Plans | GSB

As Uganda gets ready to host the African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024), it is under close examination. Scheduled from February 1–28, this elite competition offers Uganda a great chance to show its ability to organize significant worldwide events.

  • Showcasing Organizational Excellence

From stadium renovations to smooth operations, Uganda’s CHAN preparations depend on a sophisticated network of subcommittees, thorough planning, and multi-sectoral cooperation.

  • Financial Planning: The Lifeline of CHAN Preparations

Uganda’s commitment of UGX 1.3 trillion to help CHAN 2024 and AFCON 2027 forms the financial backbone of CHAN 2024. UGX 350 billion has been set aside for CHAN alone; UGX 49 billion is meant to be immediately distributed for fast-track ongoing preparations.

  • Efficient Financial Management

The Finance Subcommittee, led by Bernard Patrick Ogwel, oversees financial planning, accountability, and resource allocation. Operating under a cashless system, the team guarantees efficient channeling of funds to meet important targets. Although First Lady Janet Museveni and President Yoweri Museveni provide high-level assistance highlighting the significance of the event, bureaucratic delays remain a major issue. Every shingle counts in this fight against time.

  • Infrastructure Upgrades: Setting the Stage for Excellence

Uganda’s readiness for CHAN hinges on its infrastructure. Central to these efforts is the Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, the tournament’s flagship venue. Although the playing turf meets international standards, significant upgrades are required for its lighting system.

  • Training Grounds Preparation

Additionally, five training grounds have been earmarked for the tournament:

  • Namboole Training Pitch (ready for use).
  • Kadiiba and Kyambogo (under construction).
  • Wankulukuku (needs improvements in lighting and dressing rooms).
  • Kampala International School of Uganda (KISU) (requires work on lights and surface).

  • Timely Renovations

With construction activities beginning mid-December, the Kabaka Kyabaggu Stadium has also been included to the list. All renovations should be finished by January 20, 2024. Recently, representatives from Total Energies, a major CAF sponsor, conducted inspections to ensure compliance with international standards. These developments underline the importance of delivering state-of-the-art facilities.

  • Legal and Compliance: Ensuring a Smooth Operational Framework

Compliance with CAF regulations is paramount. The Legal Subcommittee ensures that Uganda’s legal frameworks align seamlessly with CAF’s statutes. FUFA lawyer Denis Lukambi emphasizes the need for timely waivers to meet stringent deadlines.

  • Collaboration with Regulatory Bodies

To handle tax and employment law issues, this entails working with organizations including the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) and the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB).

  • Drafting and Agreements

From contract drafting to Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), the legal team is essential in making sure the event runs without legal problems.

  • Communication and Marketing: Amplifying Uganda’s Global Appeal

Effective communication and marketing are at the heart of Uganda’s CHAN preparations. Key initiatives include:

  • Social Media Outreach: Leveraging platforms like TikTok to promote CHAN globally.
  • Official CHAN 2024 App: A digital hub for updates, schedules, and information.
  • Lifting Uganda’s Facebook Ban: Most visiting countries rely heavily on Facebook, making its availability crucial for fan engagement.

Additionally, robust ICT infrastructure is being developed, featuring 5G networks and enhanced Wi-Fi at stadiums. These upgrades aim to ensure uninterrupted communication for journalists, fans, and officials, mitigating potential embarrassments like poor connectivity or technical failures.

  • Medical Preparedness: Safeguarding Health and Safety

Health and safety are non-negotiable for CHAN 2024. CAF officials will assess the suitability of hospitals designated for the tournament. The Medical Subcommittee, led by Dr. Apollo Ahimisibwe, is tasked with:

  • Conducting risk assessments to mitigate potential health threats like malaria.
  • Ensuring insurance coverage for players, officials, and visitors.
  • Coordinating with international teams on health protocols and insurance applicability.

This all-encompassing strategy ensures everyone’s welfare including attendance.

  • Volunteers and Workforce: CHAN’s Unsung Heroes

Behind every great event is a committed group of volunteers. Hundreds of volunteers are scheduled to help officials, teams, and supporters all throughout Uganda. Volunteer training programs focus on:

  • Language Proficiency: Facilitating smooth communication with international visitors.
  • Protocol Adherence: Ensuring professional conduct during arrivals, matches, and departures.
  • Logistical Support: Logistic support includes crowd control, transportation, and accommodation management.

The smooth and friendly experience that this staff will help to create for every involved party is really vital.

  • Spectator Experience: Raising the Bar for Fan Engagement

Uganda aims to create an unforgettable experience for CHAN spectators. Initiatives include:

  • Fan Parks: Designated areas for live match screenings and entertainment.
  • Trophy Tour: A nationwide campaign to build excitement and mobilize local fans.
  • Improved Traffic Management: Addressing congestion hotspots like Kireka and Bweyogerere to ensure smooth access to stadiums.

Security measures will also play a critical role, with efforts to secure stadiums, training grounds, and hotels. Comprehensive surveillance and counter-terrorism protocols will be implemented to ensure the safety of all attendees.

  • Maximizing Commercial Opportunities

While CAF retains significant commercial rights, Uganda has an opportunity to capitalize on the tournament’s visibility. Strategies include:

  • Promoting Uganda as a premier tourism destination.
  • Engaging local businesses to support event operations and benefit from increased footfall.
  • Organizing a corporate summit to attract sponsorship and investment.

These efforts aim to position Uganda as an attractive destination for future international events.

  • Technology and Innovation: Enhancing the Digital Experience

The ICT Subcommittee is working to ensure a cutting-edge digital experience for CHAN. This includes:

  • Developing a user-friendly CHAN 2024 mobile app.
  • Ensuring 5G network coverage at all venues.
  • Implementing robust Wi-Fi systems for media professionals and technical staff.

Such advancements will not only enhance the tournament experience but also leave a lasting legacy of improved digital infrastructure in Uganda.

  • Addressing Accommodation Challenges

Accommodation for teams, fans, and officials is a critical aspect of CHAN preparations. While Kampala offers ample hotel options, challenges persist in areas like Hoima and Lira, which lack sufficient facilities. The Guest Management Subcommittee is working to:

  • Conduct a hospitality assessment to identify gaps.
  • Encourage private sector investment in new accommodations.
  • Ensure all team members are housed in the same hotels, with provisions for additional staff or private chefs as needed.

Uganda’s CHAN preparations show a nation rising to face an enormous task. Investing in infrastructure, technology, and human resources will help Uganda present a tournament that not only makes headlines but also sets a standard for future editions.