Hamis Kiggundu: Blending Business Success with Social Responsibility
March 10, 2024
Kampala, Uganda —President Yoweri Museveni formally opened the new Hamz Nakivubo Stadium with a lively ceremony full of joy and patriotism. This noteworthy occasion not only ushers in a new era for Ugandan sports, but it also demonstrates the advancements being made in the community thanks to the vision of local businessman Hamis Kiggundu.
During the grand opening, President Museveni praised Kiggundu, commonly known as Ham, for his innovative approach and commitment to national development. The President’s speech emphasized the impact of such infrastructure on Uganda’s international sports reputation and its local economic growth.
” The power and promise of Ugandan businesses is demonstrated by the recently constructed Hamz Nakivubo Stadium.
Hamis Kiggundu’s efforts in realizing this project are commendable,” stated President Museveni. He also pledged ongoing support for Kiggundu’s ventures, particularly the Ham Agro Processing Industries, which are poised to bolster Uganda’s agricultural sector.
Hamis Kiggundu, through his company, has been instrumental in the redevelopment of Nakivubo Stadium, which had previously fallen into disrepair. The new stadium boasts modern facilities, including a seating capacity that can accommodate thousands of spectators, state-of-the-art athletic amenities, and a commercial complex designed to generate revenue for further sports development.
“This stadium is more than just a sports venue; it is a hub for community and youth engagement,” said Kiggundu during the event. “We aim to nurture talent and provide opportunities that extend beyond the playing field.”
The ceremony was attended by various government officials including, State Minister for sports, Hon. Peter Ogwang, Hon.Minsa Kabanda, the Executive Director for Kampala: Dorothy Kisaka, His Worship Salim Uhuru, the Mayor for Kampala Central and thousands of citizens who came to witness the historic grand opening. Cultural performances added to the festive atmosphere, underscoring the stadium’s role in promoting cultural heritage and sports in Uganda.
Minister Ogwang’s Role in Nakivubo Stadium Opening
Minister Ogwang played a significant role during the grand opening of the Nakivubo Stadium. He not only commended Hamis Kiggundu for his dedication and the successful completion of the stadium but also pledged to actively support the inaugural sports events. Minister Ogwang expressed his enthusiasm for the stadium’s potential to enhance the community and foster a spirit of active participation among Ugandans. His commitment to being a participatory champion reflects the government’s broader goal of nurturing sports and youth engagement through improved facilities.
‘KCCA Executive Director Dorothy Kisaka has lauded the renovated Nakivubo stadium as a pivotal addition to Kampala’s skyline. She made the comments at the grand opening of the stadium presided over by President Museveni.’KCCA Executive Director Dorothy Kisaka has lauded the renovated Nakivubo stadium as a pivotal addition to Kampala’s skyline. She made the comments at the grand opening of the stadium presided over by President Museveni.
“This place is beautiful. It is a sight to reckon with in the night. This is a welcome addition to our skyline,” remarked Kisaka.
The stadium at Nakivubo War Memorial Grounds, stands as a multi-purpose arena in the heart of Kampala. With redevelopment works now completed, its capacity has been boosted to accommodate 35,000 spectators.
Kisaka expressed pride in the stadium’s transformation stating, “As KCCA, we are proud to have such a facility in our area. It is a multipurpose facility that will be used for sports and other extracurricular activities.”
Hamis Kiggundu’s Gratitude to President Museveni
Hamis Kiggundu, the visionary behind the redevelopment of Nakivubo Stadium, has publicly expressed his gratitude towards President Yoweri Museveni. Kiggundu credits the President for his political support, which began in December 2014. It was then that President Museveni approved Kiggundu’s proposal for the stadium project, providing the necessary “green light” that set the ambitious undertaking in motion. This approval was more than just administrative; it was a significant endorsement that aligned with the government’s development goals, giving Kiggundu the confidence and backing needed to pursue such a transformative project. Kiggundu acknowledges this support as a crucial factor in his success, highlighting the impact of political backing on entrepreneurial ventures in Uganda.
As Uganda continues to develop its sports infrastructure, the new Nakivubo Stadium is expected to play a crucial role in hosting both CHAN 2024 and AFCON2027, thereby putting Uganda on the global sports map. The initiative is also seen as a step forward in improving the urban landscape of Kampala, providing a blueprint for future projects aimed at urban renewal and economic development.
President Museveni’s support for such initiatives underscores his administration’s commitment to leveraging local entrepreneurship and infrastructure projects as catalysts for economic and social growth.
The stadium at Nakivubo War Memorial Grounds, stands as a multi-purpose arena in the heart of Kampala. With redevelopment works now completed, its capacity has been boosted to accommodate 35,000 spectators.Kisaka expressed pride in the stadium’s transformation stating, “As KCCA, we are proud to have such a facility in our area. It is a multipurpose facility that will be used for sports and other extracurricular activities.”The refurbishment of Nakivubo Stadium started in 2017 and has seen extensive improvements to the grounds, including the integration of retail spaces within the stadium’s perimeter walls.The grounds previously held home games for SC Villa and Police SC and the reconstruction was a collaborative effort between the Ugandan government and Ham Enterprises.With Uganda set to host AFCON 2027 and CHAN 2024, it remains to be seen the role the stadium will play in those tournaments.
