Government of Uganda has earmarked Shs102 billion for hotel development in the Bunyoro Sub-region ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament. According to Rogers Byamukama, FUFA Vice President in charge of Marketing and Communication, Shs52 billion of this funding has been allocated for the construction of a greenfield five-star hotel with a capacity of 100 beds. The facility will be strategically located between Kabalega International Airport in Kabaale Sub-county, Hoima District, and the Hoima City Stadium to support international air travel and hospitality needs.
Byamukama explained that for the airport to secure accreditation from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), there must be a hotel facility within close proximity to accommodate airline crew and passengers in case of delays or flight disruptions.
In addition, Shs30 billion has been set aside to support existing hotels in upgrading to four-star and five-star standards, while another Shs20 billion will be extended to other qualifying hotels that meet the required criteria.
Byamukama revealed that he recently led a team of technical experts from the Ministry of Tourism, the Uganda Tourism Board, and members of the AFCON Local Organizing Committee to inspect hotels across the Bunyoro Sub-region. Priority was given to facilities with the capacity and potential to upgrade to higher standards.
The team visited several hotels in Hoima City, including Miika Eco Resort, HB Hotel, Hoima Resort Hotel, Trisek Hotel, Kontik Hotel, Zebbi Hotel, Golden Castle Hotel, and Kabalega Resort Hotel, as well as others in Masindi District.
However, Byamukama did not disclose which hotels had been selected, noting that a comprehensive report is still being compiled and will be submitted to the Minister of Education and Sports, Janet Museveni. He added that the findings will be made public once finalized.
Dr. Fred Kabagambe Kaliisa, Chairperson of the Bunyoro Hotel Owners Association and proprietor of Miika Eco Resort Hotel, welcomed the government’s intervention but expressed concern over the funding gap. He noted that the association had initially requested Shs60 billion, but only Shs30 billion was allocated. “We had requested Shs60 billion because the requirements are extensive. We need presidential suites, at least two beds per room, larger conference halls, and all this within a short timeframe. Our appeal is for the government to release the funds before the end of April,” he said.
Citing concerns about bureaucratic delays, Dr. Kabagambe urged the government to channel the funds through the Uganda Development Bank directly to hotel owners rather than contractors. “Some of us have already started investing our own resources to meet the required standards. Since this is a capitation grant, it should come directly to the hotel owners, who best understand how to utilize it efficiently,” he added.
Trisha Kabaganda, owner of Trisek Hotel in Hoima, confirmed that her facility was among those inspected. However, she emphasized the need for financial support to implement the recommended upgrades. “We want to increase our bed capacity, expand conference facilities, and improve our restaurant. We are hopeful that the funds will be disbursed in time,” she said.
Dr. Kabagambe further noted that AFCON officials and players will require at least 600 rooms in four-star and five-star hotels. He also called on the government to support a broader range of hospitality facilities, noting that the tournament will attract a large number of fans and visitors who will also require quality accommodation.