Honoring an Olympic Hero
The Akii-Bua Olympic Stadium in Lira is more than just a sports facility—it is a national monument honoring John Akii-Bua, Uganda’s first Olympic gold medalist (400m hurdles, 1972 Munich Games). After decades of promises and delays, the project finally took off in 2025, marking a new era for Uganda’s sporting infrastructure.
From Promise to Reality
The idea of a stadium in Akii-Bua’s memory was first announced in 2010, but construction stalled due to funding challenges. In December 2024, Uganda signed a $129 million contract with Egyptian firm SAMCO National Construction Company (partnering with Khater Sports) to deliver a world-class facility on 18 hectares of land in Lira City.
Read official announcement →
World-Class Features of Akii-Bua Stadium
The design reflects international sporting standards, with amenities aimed at both athletes and fans:
- Main Stadium: 20,000 seats with an eight-lane athletics track
- Indoor Arena: 2,000-seat multi-sport complex
- Semi-Olympic Swimming Pool (25 meters)
- Outdoor Courts: Basketball, volleyball, netball, and badminton
- Supporting Facilities:
- 60-room athletes’ hostel
- 1,000-car parking
- Clubhouse and offices
- Borehole water system and sewerage treatment plant
Construction Progress So Far
Groundbreaking happened in January 2025, with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni presiding. By mid-2025:
- 85% of earthworks completed
- Nearly half of reinforced concrete piles installed
- Structural columns now underway
- Over 300 Ugandans employed, including 23% women
This progress highlights the project’s economic impact beyond sports, creating jobs and boosting skills in Northern Uganda.
AFCON 2027 and Beyond
Although originally considered for AFCON 2027, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) ruled out Akii-Bua Stadium due to location and infrastructure gaps. Instead, Hoima Stadium will host tournament games.
Still, the stadium will become Uganda’s first true Olympic-standard sports complex, hosting athletics, football, and community events for decades to come.
Why This Matters for Uganda
The Akii-Bua Stadium is more than a building it’s a symbol of resilience, unity, and national pride. For Northern Uganda, it promises:
- Youth development in sports
- Tourism growth in Lira City
- Economic opportunities for local businesses
- A lasting legacy honoring John Akii-Bua
About Smeaton Constructions
At Smeaton Constructions, we believe in projects that transform communities and inspire generations. As Uganda’s construction industry grows, we remain committed to innovation, quality, and sustainable building practices.
📍 Address: Kampala – Nabbingo–Masaka Road, Kampala, Uganda
📞 Phone/WhatsApp: +256 758 821 603 | +256 787 943 539
📧 Email: smeatonconstructions.ac@gmail.com
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