# Nakivubo Stadium

Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo War Memorial Grounds, formerly referred to as Nakivubo Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium in Kampala, Uganda. Following extensive renovations led by businessman Haji Dr. Hamis Kiggundu in partnership with the Ugandan government, the stadium has been upgraded to international standards. The facility auditioned with significant events like CAF U17 and CHAN 2024 in december 2024 which marked a new chapter in Uganda's sporting and community landscape. It is slated to host the AFCON2027. As of December 2024; Two Uganda premier league clubs URA FC and Express FC use Hamz stadium as their home ground. The stadium was commissioned by President Museveni on 25 April 2024. It has a total seating capacity of 35,000 people.

## Location

The stadium is located in the Central Business District of Kampala City at Nakivubo War Memorial Grounds, surrounded by Ham Shopping Grounds, within a walking distance from the New Taxi Park. It sits on two adjacent parcels of land measuring 11.62 acres (47,000 m$^2$) and 0.835 acres (3,380 m$^2$), totaling 12.455 acres (50,400 m$^2$).

## History
### Early Development

Originally established in 1926 on land donated by the Kabaka of Buganda. It hosted its first match on 1 April 1926 between the Uganda National Team and the Under-18 National team of Uganda.
It became a central venue for football in Uganda, hosting various local and international matches.
In 1954, the stadium was renamed Nakivubo War Memorial Stadium to honor Ugandan soldiers who lost their lives during World War II. This renaming was part of a broader modernization effort by the British colonial government, which sought to commemorate the fallen soldiers through the passage of the Nakivubo War Memorial Stadium Trust Act by the Parliament of Uganda. It was later renamed Nakivubo Stadium at Nakivubo War Memorial Grounds.
However, by the early 21st century, the stadium had fallen into disrepair, reflecting the broader challenges of maintaining public infrastructure in Kampala.

## Renovation and Modernization

In 2015, Ham Enterprises, led by Haji Dr. Hamis Kiggundu, collaborated with the Ugandan government to renovate and modernize the stadium. In 2017, all the deteriorated structures were completely demolished, paving the way for the initiation of new construction works. In December 2023, the Nile Post a Ugandan online publication, reported that after the ongoing renovations were completed the name of the stadium would be changed to Hamz Stadium Nakivubo. The renovated stadium was commissioned by Yoweri Museveni, the Ugandan Head of State on 25 April 2024. The renovated stadium has a seating capacity of 35,000, broken down as follows (i) 20,000 ordinary seats (ii) 10,000 VIP seats (iii) 5,000 VVIP seats and (iv) 40 executive boxes and other added modern facilities, with a total investment nearing US$200 million.

### Features and Facilities

The upgraded stadium includes a FIFA-standard football pitch, athletics tracks, a basketball court, and a boxing ring. It also features enhanced amenities like VIP lounges, executive boxes, and modern health and emergency services. The artificial playing turf at Hamz Nakivubo War Memorial Stadium was certified by the global football governing body FIFA for a period running from 04.10.2024 to 03.10.2027.

## Grand Opening

On June 1, 2024, the grand opening of Hamz Stadium in Kampala, Uganda, heralded a new dawn for sports and entertainment in the region. The event kicked off at 7:00 PM with a spectacular 10-minute fireworks display that lit up the Kampala skyline, creating an electrifying atmosphere.
The stadium, boasting a capacity of 35,000, was nearly full, with all 40 executive boxes sold out. The evening's festivities began with a thrilling football match where URA FC triumphed over Kitara FC with a 3-0 victory. This was followed by dynamic performances from top Ugandan artists, including Rema Namakula, Eddy Kenzo, Cindy, Bebe Cool, Alien Skin, among others turning the night into an unforgettable celebration of music and sport.
The event showcased a variety of sports competitions, featuring SC Villa's victory in football, Zahara Nandawula's win in amateur boxing, and Isaac Zebra Jr.'s triumph in professional boxing. These events kept the audience on the edge of their seats, highlighting the versatility of the stadium as a premier venue for diverse athletic events.
Security was paramount, with the presence of the UPDF and stringent checks ensuring the safety of all attendees. Dr. Ham also demonstrated a strong commitment to attendee welfare, providing immediate medical attention to spectator Muhindo Geofrey, who required emergency care.
A highlight of the evening was the generous hospitality extended to all attendees. Spectators enjoyed complimentary meals and drinks, courtesy of Hamis Kiggundu, adding to the celebratory spirit of the event. The grand opening attracted numerous VIPs, including former Vice Presidents: Gilbert Bukenya and Edward Kiwanuka Ssekandi, FUFA President Moses Magogo, and Vision Group CEO Don Wanyama.
In his closing remarks, Haji Dr. Hamis Kiggundu expressed heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming success of the event. He emphasized the stadium's readiness to host a wide range of future sports and cultural activities, setting the stage for Hamz Stadium to become a central hub for entertainment in Uganda.
The grand opening concluded at 5:30 AM, marking the beginning of a new era for Hamz Stadium and reaffirming its status as an iconic venue for sports and entertainment in Uganda.

## FIFA Certification

In October 2024, the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) officially certified the turf system at Hamz Stadium in Nakivubo, Uganda. The certification, confirmed in a statement signed by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, affirmed that the stadium's playing field meets international standards required for hosting international football matches.
The certification marked a significant step in positioning Hamz Stadium as a viable venue for hosting major international tournaments, including potential matches in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Stadium officials further expressed confidence in the facility's readiness to meet both FIFA and CAF standards, further contributing to Uganda’s soccer infrastructure development.

### Economic and Community Impact

The renovation of Hamz Stadium has contributed to local economic growth, creating jobs and boosting businesses in the surrounding area. It is expected to attract international events, further enhancing its economic impact.

## Football Events

The facility is set to host major sporting events, including AFCON 2027 and has already held the CHAN 2024 and CAF U-17 highlighting Uganda's capacity to organize international sports competitions.

## Cultural Significance

The stadium is not only a sports venue but also a symbol of national pride and development, reflecting Uganda's aspirations and achievements in sports and infrastructure.

## Governance

The stadium is owned by the Ugandan government but was leased to Dr. Ham through the Ham Enterprises to manage and operate it for 49-years

## Controversies

The renovation project faced initial skepticism and resistance from local communities and market vendors, concerned about the potential loss of heritage and public space.

## Awards and recognition

In January 2025, Hamz Stadium was included in the shortlist for StadiumDB.com's annual Stadium of the Year public poll, which recognizes football venues completed in the preceding calendar year.
The award is decided by a global public vote organized by StadiumDB.com and its affiliated platforms.