Preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) are progressing, as the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) has begun inspecting hotel facilities in the Bunyoro Sub-region to evaluate their readiness to accommodate players and officials during the tournament.
According to monitor.co.ug, the inspection which officially started on Monday, is being led by Mr Rogers Byamukama Araali, who doubles as marketing executive at the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA). The team was tasked with identifying suitable accommodation for teams that will be based in Hoima.
The team started its assessment with Miika Eco Resort Hotel, located in Hoima City, one of the facilities earmarked for evaluation as Uganda gears up to co-host the prestigious continental tournament.
Speaking during the inspection, Mr Byamukama said the exercise is aimed at ensuring that all selected hotels meet the required international standards to host the players and officials.
“We have been directed by the Minister of Education and Sports to lead this team of government officials in identifying hotels that are fit to host AFCON players who will be playing from Hoima Stadium,” Mr Byamukama said.
According to him, the inspection focuses on key areas such as accommodation capacity, hygiene, security, accessibility, and the quality of services offered by the facilities.
“This is a very important exercise because AFCON is a major international tournament. We must ensure that the facilities we select can meet the expectations of teams, officials, and guests from across Africa and beyond,” Mr. Byamukama added.
Uganda, alongside Kenya and Tanzania, is set to co-host the 2027 AFCON tournament, marking a historic moment for the region. Hoima City is among the selected host cities in Uganda and is expected to accommodate teams that will play their matches at the Hoima Stadium, which was commissioned recently by President Museveni.
Mr Harrison Musing, the Bunyoro sports association chairman, says the availability of high-quality accommodation is a key requirement by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), as it directly affects the comfort and performance of players during the tournament.
During the visit to Miika Eco Resort Hotel, the inspection team toured various sections of the facility, including guest rooms, dining areas, conference halls, and recreational spaces, to assess whether they meet the standards required for hosting international teams.
Members of the team were also keen on evaluating the hotel’s ability to handle large groups, its proximity to the stadium, and the reliability of essential services such as water and electricity.
Hoima City has in recent years experienced rapid growth in its hospitality sector, driven largely by increased economic activity linked to the oil and gas industry. Several new hotels and lodges have been established, while existing facilities have undergone upgrades to meet rising demand.
Local leaders have welcomed the inspection exercise, saying it presents an opportunity for the region to showcase its potential on the continental stage.
Mr Wakisa James, a chairperson of Bunyoro hotel owners in the area, has also expressed optimism, noting that being selected to host AFCON teams would significantly boost their business and visibility.
“We are ready to meet the required standards. This is a chance for us to grow and to put Hoima on the map,” Mr. Wakisa said
Mr. Byamukama noted that the inspection exercise will continue in other hotels within Hoima City and surrounding areas in the coming days, as the team works to compile a list of recommended facilities.
He added that hotels that do not meet the required standards will be advised on areas of improvement to ensure they are ready in time for the tournament.
“We are not only identifying facilities but also guiding them on what needs to be improved. There is still time, and we want all stakeholders to be prepared,” Mr Byamukama said.
