Kampala, Uganda – The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among, and her husband, Hon. Eng. Moses Magogo, the President of the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA), hosted the Confederation of African Football (CAF) President, Dr. Patrice Motsepe, for an exclusive dinner at their residence. The event marked a significant moment in Uganda’s ongoing preparations to host the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) and co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Dr. Motsepe, who is in Uganda to assess the country's readiness for the upcoming CHAN tournament scheduled for February 2024, was welcomed with warm hospitality. The Speaker expressed her gratitude for his unwavering support and guidance in helping Uganda achieve its goals in the football arena.
“We are honoured to host Dr. Patrice Motsepe, whose leadership and vision for African football have inspired nations across the continent. His visit reaffirms CAF's confidence in Uganda’s capability to deliver world-class football tournaments. We are grateful for his consistent support as Uganda prepares to make history by co-hosting AFCON 2027,” remarked Rt. Hon. Anita Among.
During the dinner, discussions centered around Uganda’s progress in finalizing infrastructure and logistical arrangements for CHAN 2024. This tournament will feature national teams composed exclusively of players active in their respective domestic leagues. Uganda, renowned for its passion for football, is determined to host a memorable event that meets international standards.
Hon. Eng. Moses Magogo assured Dr. Motsepe of FUFA’s commitment to ensuring all aspects of the tournament are handled efficiently. “Our team is working tirelessly to upgrade stadiums, improve training facilities, and enhance the overall football ecosystem in the country. CHAN 2024 will showcase not only the talent on the pitch but also Uganda’s growing capacity as a premier football destination,” he stated.
Uganda’s selection as a co-host for AFCON 2027, alongside Kenya and Tanzania, has brought immense pride to the nation. Dr. Motsepe commended Uganda for its vision and ambition in embracing this monumental task. He emphasized that the successful hosting of CHAN 2024 would serve as a critical stepping stone towards achieving a seamless AFCON 2027 experience.
“Uganda has shown tremendous potential in organizing football events, and I am confident that the partnerships forged between CAF, FUFA, and the Ugandan government will yield outstanding results. The 2027 AFCON is an opportunity for East Africa to shine on the global stage, and Uganda is well-positioned to lead this effort,” Dr. Motsepe said.
Rt. Hon. Anita Among, who has been a vocal advocate for sports development in Uganda, reiterated her commitment to supporting initiatives that uplift the country’s sports sector. Under her leadership, Parliament has championed increased funding for sports infrastructure and talent development.
“We believe that sports unite us as a nation and serve as a platform to showcase Uganda’s potential. Hosting CHAN 2024 and co-hosting AFCON 2027 are not just sporting events; they are opportunities for us to promote tourism, investment, and the rich cultural heritage of Uganda,” she noted.
A Stronger Partnership for African Football
The dinner concluded with a renewed commitment between CAF and Uganda to continue fostering a strong partnership that promotes football development. Dr. Motsepe’s visit comes at a time when Uganda is making significant strides in elevating its status as a key player in African football.
As the country gears up for CHAN 2024 and the co-hosting of AFCON 2027, the collaborative efforts of stakeholders, including the government, FUFA, and CAF, remain crucial. Uganda’s football community eagerly anticipates showcasing its passion and hospitality to the rest of Africa and the world.
This milestone event underscores Uganda’s readiness to take its place on the continental football stage, proving that with unity and determination, the country can achieve remarkable success in sports and beyond.
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