Parliament, Uganda — Kole North Member of Parliament Dr. Samuel Opio Acuti has raised alarm over the government’s failure to secure funding for tarmacking the 18-kilometre access roads leading to Akii-Bua Stadium in Lira City, a key venue for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Speaking on the floor of Parliament on October 1, 2026, Dr. Opio urged the government to fast-track the road works, warning that time is running out as Uganda prepares to co-host the continental tournament.
“Construction should already be underway,” he said, pointing specifically to the Corner Ayer–Corner Aboke–Bobi road, which is expected to serve as a critical artery for teams, officials, and fans accessing the stadium.
Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, responding to the concerns, confirmed that Akii-Bua Stadium will indeed serve as one of the AFCON 2027 venues. She told Parliament that government has already released funds to renovate hotels that will accommodate players and visitors during the tournament.
However, in a candid admission, the Prime Minister noted that funding for the construction of the access roads has not yet been secured.
The revelation has sparked concerns about Uganda’s readiness to host the prestigious tournament, with Dr. Opio insisting that road infrastructure is not a luxury but a necessity for the success of the event.
“We cannot host AFCON with poor roads leading to the stadium. This is a matter of national pride and urgency,” he said.
The government has yet to announce a timeline for when the road funding will be secured or when construction will commence, leaving questions unanswered about whether the 18-kilometre stretch will be ready before the tournament kicks off.
As Uganda races against time to prepare for AFCON 2027, the pressure is mounting on the government to deliver on its infrastructure promises — or risk embarrassing the nation on the continental stage.
