Uganda has taken a decisive step to convert the 2027 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations into a catalyst for long-term national transformation, unveiling a multi-stakeholder platform designed to deliver impact well beyond the tournament itself.
The Government of Uganda, in partnership with the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) and a coalition of development and private sector actors, on Saturday launched the Sports for National Development (SND) Consortium at Mestil Hotel in Kampala.
Positioned as Uganda’s strategic engine, the Consortium is tasked with translating the country’s co-hosting of AFCON 2027 into measurable socio-economic gains across employment, tourism, infrastructure, youth empowerment and national identity.
The initiative brings together the Government of Uganda, FUFA, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), UNESCO, Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA), Hewlett Foundation, UN Global Pulse, and the AFCON Local Organising Committee (LOC).
The Sports for National development consortium will be anchored on five strategic pillars.
- Data and Analytics – To guide investment and measure impact for Uganda
- Strengthened Football Ecosystem and Engagement – Led by FUFA to grow the game at all levels
- Strategic Investment Intelligence – To attract private sector and enterprise growth
- Destination Uganda – Led by UTB to promote Uganda as a sporting and tourism destination
- Legacy and Sustainability – To ensure benefits in youth development, infrastructure and innovation outlast 2027
The Chief Guest, Minister of State for Sports and Co-Chairperson of the AFCON LOC (Uganda), Hon. Peter Ogwang, underscored the long-term vision underpinning the initiative.
‘The Consortium is in direct alignment with Uganda’s national agenda.
AFCON 2027 is not the end point. It is Uganda’s starting whistle for sustainable development.
As we enhance our hosting capacity, Uganda will open doors to more sporting events and create greater opportunities for athlete development.
The Consortium’s strategic pillars will guide this national effort.” Said Ogwang
FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim highlighted the global visibility and economic potential tied to the tournament.
“With viewership in over 150 countries, AFCON 2027 presents Uganda with a unique opportunity to share our story with the world.
It is a platform to position Uganda and East Africa, to stimulate economic growth, and to use data to inform development.
Through FUFA, we are committed to strengthening the football ecosystem so Uganda excels both on the pitch and beyond it’
Speaking on behalf of development partners, UNDP Resident Representative Ms. Nwanne Vwede-Obahor emphasised the importance of sustained collaboration.
“Sustained collaboration is essential for lasting impact.
For Uganda, our collective responsibility is to ensure that when the final whistle blows, it marks not an ending, but a new beginning.
A beginning that unlocks opportunities for employment, tourism, enterprise, infrastructure, national pride, and regional integration”
