Lira, Uganda – Lira City is witnessing a transformation in its hospitality sector with the grand opening of Tonco Tower Hotel as the countdown to AFCON 2027 begins.
Located in Obutuwelo, along the Lira-Apac-Rwekunye road, the three-story facility is poised to enhance the city’s ability to host international guests, offering accommodations, a restaurant and night parking services.
Tony Adeka, the visionary behind Tonco Tower Hotel, reflected on his humble beginnings and the collaborative spirit that propelled his entrepreneurial journey.
“Success comes through patience, trust and mutual support among businesspeople. This hotel is a symbol of what we can achieve together,” Adeka remarked during the opening ceremony.
With AFCON 2027 set to bring an influx of visitors to Lira, the city’s stakeholders see the new hotel as a timely addition.
Former Chamber of Commerce Chairperson Bosco Ogwang Edola lauded the venture for increasing Lira’s bed-night capacity, which he identified as a key challenge.
“AFCON is a massive opportunity for Lira, but we must ensure we have enough accommodations. Hotels like Tonco Tower are crucial to our success as a host city,” Edola said, adding that the diversity in hospitality options ensures that every guest finds a suitable place to stay.
Resident City Commissioner Lawrence Egole urged other entrepreneurs to seize the moment and invest in the hospitality sector.
“Tonco Tower is a great addition, but we need more facilities to match the demand AFCON will bring. Let’s focus on making Lira a destination ready for the world,” Egole said.
Awitong Laury Lawrence Ocen, a cultural leader, emphasized the importance of leveraging technology to attract international clientele.
He called on hoteliers to ensure online visibility and offer premium services such as airport shuttles to elevate the city’s hospitality standards.
The opening ceremony featured a mass led by Fr. Lawrence Sunday Ogwang-Curet, who blessed the hotel and emphasized the role of unity and transparency in business.
“May this venture bring prosperity and serve as an example of what determination and collaboration can achieve,” he prayed.
Tonco Tower Hotel which was officially opened on the 29 December, 2024, marks a milestone in Lira’s journey toward becoming a world-class host city, underscoring the region’s readiness to shine during AFCON 2027 and beyond.
