His Majesty William Wilberforce Kadhumbula Gabula Nadiope IV could soon see one of Busoga Kingdom’s most important sporting venues transformed after the government unveiled plans to upgrade Kyabazinga Stadium into a modern 20,000-seater facility.
The stadium, widely known as Bugembe Stadium in Jinja, is set to be redeveloped into a multi-sport complex under a nationwide sports infrastructure programme led by the National Council of Sports.
Officials say the project aims to improve sports facilities and expand opportunities for athletes in the Busoga sub-region and across eastern Uganda.
According to Milton Chebet, Assistant General Secretary for Technical Affairs at the National Council of Sports, the redevelopment will feature a 20,000-seat main stadium, training grounds for athletes, an athletics running track and an indoor arena for sports such as boxing and basketball.
Chebet said Kyabazinga Stadium and Mbale Stadium have been prioritised for the eastern region, though construction will begin in a later phase of the national programme.
However, the project could face challenges due to suspected encroachment on land around the stadium. Officials say some individuals have built permanent houses on sections meant for the sports complex.
It remains unclear whether the government will compensate occupants if the land is reclaimed.
Owned by the Busoga Kingdom, Kyabazinga Stadium has for years hosted regional football matches and community sporting events, making it one of eastern Uganda’s key sports venues.
The planned upgrade is expected to strengthen its role in developing sport across the region.
