Uganda Set for CHAN 2024 Kickoff

By Nabakiibi Dorren Malaika

With just a few hours to go, Uganda is shifting into high gear ahead of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) which kicks off this Saturday , August 2.
The mood is electric, and all signs point to a well-oiled showpiece as the country readies itself to host the continent.

Volunteers Step up to Deliver the CHAN Experience
The Local Organizing Committee (LOC) has wrapped up its volunteer selection, a key pillar of the tournament’s operations. A staggering 1,884 Ugandans applied to be part of the action. After a thorough screening process, 1,222 volunteers have been shortlisted and will now undergo intensive training that kicked off on July 25, led by trainers from the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Their mission is simple—ensure visiting teams, officials, and fans feel right at home.

Namboole Back in the Spotlight
Mandela National Stadium in Namboole is fully ready to host Uganda’s Group C clashes. The iconic venue has received a fresh new look after a three-year overhaul by the UPDF Engineering Brigade. The Cranes will play all their group stage matches at this refurbished arena. Training pitches at Wankulukuku, Kyambogo, KISU, and Kadiba have also been tuned up and cleared for use.

Infrastructure Checked and Cleared
The LOC confirms all match venues are good to go. Parking has been expanded and public transport routes improved to ease match day flow. Over 400 volunteers have already completed venue-specific training at Namboole and Lugogo. Across the country, fan zones will bring the CHAN buzz to the wider public expect music, screens, and plenty of color.

Cranes Ready to Fly
Uganda’s CHAN journey has often started with promise, only to fall short of the knockout rounds. But this time, the hope is different. Belgian coach Paul Put has named a 29-man squad packed with domestic talent. It’s a bold mix of seasoned campaigners and hungry young stars all drawn from local clubs. The stage is theirs to rewrite the script.

Fixtures Locked In
Uganda hosts Group C and will face Algeria on August 4, Niger on August 8, and Guinea on August 11 all under the Namboole floodlights. The tournament runs from August 2 to August 30, with the final set for Moi International Sports Centre in Nairobi, Kenya.