The CHAN 2024 Uganda tournament exposed serious weaknesses in the country’s sports governance. What should have been a moment of national pride instead became a warning about poor planning and accountability. Co-hosted with Kenya and Tanzania, the event aimed to boost Uganda’s image, attract tourism, and strengthen regional ties. However, confusion, low visibility, and administrative mistakes dominated the experience.
The government allocated Shs28.5 billion (about $7.9 million) for marketing. Yet many residents near Mandela National Stadium only noticed the event when traffic diversions began. Along the Entebbe–Northern Bypass, a main entry route from the airport, organisers placed no signage or welcoming branding. In some areas, political campaign posters overwhelmed the few CHAN-related materials, wasting the potential impact of the marketing budget.
Organisers also created frustration by shifting ticket sales exclusively online without informing the public effectively. Thousands of fans arrived expecting to buy tickets at the gate. Families who travelled from distant districts left disappointed when denied entry. Inside the stadium, vendors set high prices for basic goods without any oversight, turning the venue into a costly experience instead of a celebration.
The volunteer programme faced similar issues. Officials removed several trained participants from the accreditation list without explanation, undermining morale. In contrast, the Buganda Masaza Cup—operating with a much smaller budget—draws strong national attention every year. It uses radio promotions, local events, and community outreach to fill stadiums, proving that organisation matters more than money.
The CHAN 2024 Uganda mismanagement carries wider consequences. Uganda has positioned itself as a venue for major summits, including the Non-Aligned Movement and G77+China meetings. A poorly run international tournament damages that reputation and raises questions about readiness for future events.
To restore trust, the Ministry of Education and Sports must commission a public audit of CHAN 2024 funds. Furthermore, Uganda should create a sports events accountability framework to guide planning and spending. With transparency and proper organisation, sports can unite communities, enhance diplomacy, and strengthen national pride.
