By East Africa is hosting its first-ever multi-nation CAF tournament, with Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania jointly staging the African Nations Championship (CHAN) from August 2 to 30, 2025.
⚽ Uganda Vs Algeria ⚽
On August 4, 2025, Uganda faced Algeria in the tournament opener. Algeria delivered a dominant performance, defeating Uganda 3–0 with goals from Bayazid, Meziane, and Ghezala.
Uganda became the first co-host to lose their opening match in CHAN this year.
👏 President Museveni’s Pledge
On August 4, 2025, President Yoweri Museveni promised a Shs 1.2 billion bonus for every Uganda Cranes victory during CHAN 2024. Speaker of Parliament Anita Among and FUFA president Moses Magogo delivered the pledge to the squad before the Algeria match.
Additional support came from Speaker Among herself, who donated US $20,000 (approx. Shs 72m). Businessman Hamis Kiggundu also pledged Shs 20m.
Uganda’s role
Uganda is in Group C with Algeria, Guinea, Niger, and South Africa. All Group C matches are held at Mandela National Stadium (Namboole) in Kampala, including the third-place playoff on August 29.
Head coach Morley Byekwaso acknowledged the weight of history—Uganda has never passed the group stage—and emphasized the need to draw strength from home support despite the tough result.
🛡️Security
Ahead of the match, the Uganda Police Force reiterated strict stadium security and conduct rules. Assistant Commissioner Kituuma Rusoke urged fans to dress appropriately and warned that misconduct would face firm enforcement. The ticketing process remains strictly online, with no last-minute parking exceptions for non-VIPs
💰 Economic Significance
Originally slated for February 2025, CAF postponed CHAN to August to allow host nations to complete stadium and training facility upgrades. By CAF’s inspection, Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania were confirmed fit to host. At Mandela Stadium, enhancements included pitch and floodlighting upgrades, improved media and fan amenities, and renovated training grounds such as Nakivubo (Hamz Stadium), Kadiba, KIS, and Wankulukuku.
Economic benefits are expected through boosted tourism, hospitality, transportation, and local commerce. Investments made for CHAN will serve as a legacy for future events including AFCON 2027, also co-hosted by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania.
⚽ On-Field Ambition
Despite six previous CHAN appearances, the team has never advanced beyond the group stage. Hosting on home soil and support from fans, coupled with former captain Denis Onyango now part of the coaching staff, offer fresh opportunities to change history.
