Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni praised Turkiye’s strong ties with the East African country and praised the Turkish company for its contribution to Uganda’s infrastructure development.
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni praised Turkiye’s strong ties with the East African country and praised the Turkish company for its contribution to Uganda’s infrastructure development.
Speaking at the commissioning of Uganda’s largest sports complex in western Uganda, built by Turkish company SUMMA, President Museveni said the project was a strategic investment in youth development, sports tourism and national pride.
The state-of-the-art facility is one of East Africa’s most advanced sports complexes and will host both domestic and international matches, including matches for the 2027 African Cup of Nations (AFCON), which Uganda will co-host with Kenya and Tanzania.
Mr. Fatih Aku, Ambassador of Turkey to Uganda, highlighted the strong and growing partnership between the two countries.
“Great relationship”
“Turkiye and Uganda enjoy excellent political and economic relations, based on mutual respect and common aspirations. Under the strong and visionary leadership of President Museveni and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, our cooperation has grown into a strategic partnership. Hoima City Stadium stands today as a visible and lasting symbol of that friendship.”
Ambassador Aku also highlighted the role of Turkish companies in Uganda’s infrastructure development.
“We are proud that this landmark project was built by SUMMA, a leading Turkish construction company recognized globally for its commitment to professionalism, efficiency and quality. We commend all Turkish companies operating in Uganda for their dedication and being strong partners in Uganda’s development journey,” he added.
Other Turkish companies contributing to Uganda’s infrastructure include Yap Merkezi, which is building a standard gauge railway, and Porat Yor Yapi Sanai, which is currently upgrading the 92km road between Muembe and Nakapiripirit.
bridge of friendship
Ambassador Aku highlighted Uganda’s achievements in soccer, mentioning Majid Musisi, who set a record transfer fee of $1 million when he joined Bursaspor in Turkey in 1994.
“Majid Musisi proudly represented Uganda and left a lasting impression on Turkiye. His famous ‘crocodile walk’ goal celebration remains unforgettable. Today we pay tribute to him as a football icon and a bridge of friendship between Uganda and Turkiye.”
According to SUMMA chairman Selim Bora, the stadium will host soccer and indoor matches, as well as serve as a hub for sports tourism and corporate events.
Uganda’s Sports Minister Peter Ogwane told TRT Africa that the government has allocated funds for additional sports facilities across the country to strengthen the sector.
job creation
“President Museveni has approved $130 million for the construction of Hoima City Stadium. Similar projects are underway,” he said.
Bernard Patrick Ogweru, executive director of the Uganda National Sports Council, said the construction of the stadium created more than 1,060 jobs, 69% of which were employed by Ugandans. The complex covers 16.8 hectares and has parking for over 800 vehicles.
