Nakivubo Stadium

Hamz Stadium, formerly referred to as Nakivubo Stadium at Nakivubo War Memorial Grounds, is a multi-purpose stadium in Kampala, Uganda. Following extensive renovations led by businessman Hamis Kiggundu in partnership with the Ugandan government, the stadium has been upgraded to international standards. It is slated to host significant events like AFCON2027 and CHAN 2024. which will mark a new chapter in Uganda's sporting and community landscape. It was previously used mostly for football matches and served as the home venue of SC Villa. The stadium had a capacity of about 21,000 people, but upon partial completion of the renovations started in  2017, President Museveni commissioned  the stadium on 25 April 2024. It will have a total seating capacity of 35,000 people upon final completion.

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 acre and 0.835 acre, totaling 12.455 acre.

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. 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 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.

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. 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, 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.

Economic and Community Impact
The renovation of Hamz Nakivubo 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.

Future Events
Hamz Nakivubo Stadium is set to host major sporting events, including AFCON 2027 and CHAN 2024, 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 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.