FUFA President Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim has highlighted the potential of TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations PAMOJA 2027 to promote Uganda's tourism sector and attract international visitors.
He spoke at the signing of a partnership between the Confederation of African Football and the Uganda Tourism Board in Kampala.
CAF General Secretary Samson Adamu, UTB Chief Executive Officer Juliana Kagwa, Minister of State for Education and Sports Hon. Peter Ogwang, Minister of State for Tourism Hon. Susan Nakawuki Nsambu and Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa attended the ceremony.
Magogo emphasised leveraging football's global appeal to showcase Uganda and create lasting economic opportunities beyond the tournament.
"Today, I don't look at this event as a signature of Uganda Tourism Board and CAF in a partnership. For me, it's an indicator that actually AFCON is going to happen," he said.
Uganda will co-host the 2027 continental showpiece with Kenya and Tanzania from 19th June to 17th July 2027.
Magogo traced his ambition to bring AFCON to Uganda to the disappointment of 9th October 2011 when Uganda narrowly missed qualification against Kenya at Namboole.
That dream advanced on 4th September 2016 when Uganda secured qualification for the 2017 AFCON finals.
"It's one thing taking Uganda back to the AFCON, it's another thing to bring AFCON to Uganda," he said reflecting on the journey to hosting rights.
Following CAF's announcement on 27th September 2023 that East Africa would host AFCON 2027, FUFA engaged authorities on the opportunities the tournament brings.
The partnership builds on those efforts providing a platform to promote Uganda's tourism attractions, cultural heritage and hospitality through broadcast, digital and in-stadium platforms.
Magogo noted AFCON's value extends beyond the pitch with the anticipated influx of visitors presenting opportunities for businesses and communities across the country.
"For me, it's our game being very important to the country, not just as a sport and entertainment and the corners and the free kicks, but now affecting the pockets of Ugandans," he said.
Key facts from the partnership
- Tournament: TotalEnergies CAF AFCON PAMOJA 2027
- Co-hosts: Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania
- Dates: 19 June to 17 July 2027
- Partners: CAF and Uganda Tourism Board
- FUFA President: Hon. Magogo Moses Hassim
- CAF General Secretary: Samson Adamu
- UTB CEO: Juliana Kagwa
Source: FUFA
