Lira City stakeholders are set to launch an online petition to President Yoweri Museveni this coming Monday, seeking government intervention in the construction of 18.3 kilometres of access roads linking Akii-Bua Olympic Stadium to key parts of the city ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The campaign, spearheaded by Lira City Development Forum President Akeny Emmanuel, aims to pressure government into expediting the supporting infrastructure, which stakeholders fear could undermine Lira’s readiness to host international football matches scheduled for July 2027.
Speaking at Lira City Mayor’s Garden on November 3, 2026, Akeny appreciated the government’s investment in the stadium but expressed concern that the current contractor, Egyptian firm SAMCO National Construction Company, was not mandated to construct the connecting roads despite earlier government assurances that the works would be undertaken.
He said the petition would form part of a broader mobilisation campaign involving daily engagements with Lango Members of Parliament to push for resource allocation and oversight, alongside weekly press briefings to amplify concerns raised by city stakeholders.
Lira City Development Forum Secretary Opio Leonard warned that the poor state of roads leading to the stadium, characterised by potholes, narrow sections and possible flooding during the rainy season, could complicate access for international teams, officials and supporters during the continental tournament.
He said improving the road network would ease transportation while opening up business and trade opportunities for Lira City and the wider Lango sub-region.
Ogweng Emmy, who works with Lira University, also called for the rehabilitation of roads connecting the university to the main highway and its training facilities, noting that improved access would be crucial for players, diplomats and other visitors expected to use the institution’s facilities.
The stakeholders identified nine priority roads requiring attention, including Won-Nyaci, Lumumba Ogengo, Ireda Shamba, James Ajal, Erute, Dokolo, Moroto, Gapco Odokomit and Boroboro roads. They said the routes are essential in connecting the stadium to hotels, business centres and other key facilities across the city.
They warned that handing over a modern stadium without adequate road connectivity would leave a critical gap in the city’s preparations and limit the benefits of the multi-billion-shilling investment.
Meanwhile, construction of Akii-Bua Olympic Stadium is reported to be 85% complete, with the facility expected to accommodate 20,000 spectators.
The UGX470 billion project also comprises a 2,000-seat indoor arena, swimming pool, and athletics tracks.
Construction commenced in May 2025, with the main works expected to be completed by December 2026 and final handover scheduled for January 2027, ahead of the July 2027 AFCON tournament.