Uganda Wins Right to Host 2031 African Games, Beating Nigeria in Bidding Race
Image by The Independent Uganda | 2020
Uganda has been awarded the hosting rights for the 2031 African Games, making it the first time the East African nation will stage the continent's premier multi-sport competition.
The decision was announced during an Extraordinary Session of the African Union Specialized Technical Committee on Youth, Culture and Sports, held virtually. Bernard Patrick Ogwel, General Secretary of Uganda's National Council of Sports, confirmed the outcome, calling it an opportunity for the country to "once again showcase her abilities in hosting an international event."
Uganda prevailed over Nigeria in the bidding process - a significant win that positions the country as an emerging force in African sports hosting. Kenya remains the only other East African nation to have previously staged the Games.
The Ugandan bid was led by State Minister for Sports Peter Ogwang, anchored around two key venues: the newly constructed Hoima City Stadium and the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala. Ogwang credited the outcome to presidential and governmental backing, noting the support of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni as central to building a competitive bid.
The hosting win arrives as Uganda deepens its profile as a major sports destination. The country is already part of the East African trio - alongside Kenya and Tanzania - set to co-host the 2027 CAF Africa Cup of Nations, the first time three nations have jointly staged the tournament.
The African Games, held every four years under the joint authority of the African Union, the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa, and the Association of African Sports Confederations, brings together athletes from across the continent across multiple disciplines. The 15th edition is set for Uganda in 2031.
