Hoima, Uganda – Sports diplomacy took centre stage in Uganda’s Albertine Region as ambassadors from the European Union and its member states praised the Hoima City Stadium complex as a world-class sporting facility capable of advancing both international cooperation and regional development.

Speaking during a reception dinner hosted in the VIP section of the stadium, European Union Ambassador to Uganda, H.E Jan Sadek, commended the quality and vision behind the facility, describing it as a major milestone in Uganda’s sports infrastructure transformation. The event formed part of the annual “Team Europe” regional mission, which this year focused on Hoima City and the wider Albertine Region as the European Union continues to celebrate 50 years since the establishment of its office in Kampala in 1976.

Ambassadors and representatives from France, the Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, Austria, and Ireland joined cultural, political, and administrative leaders from the Bunyoro sub-region, alongside representatives from civil society, the private sector, oil and gas companies including TotalEnergies, the media, and officials from the National Council of Sports. The mission aimed to provide the European delegation with deeper insight into Uganda’s ongoing infrastructure investments and the broader economic transformation taking place within the oil-rich Albertine Region. During their visit, the delegation toured key strategic projects including the airport, oil refinery, oil wells, and the Omukama’s palace, while also participating in sporting activities at the Hoima City Stadium and indoor arena.

The quality of the sports facilities particularly impressed the visiting diplomats, reinforcing the growing role of sports infrastructure in promoting international partnerships, tourism, youth empowerment, and community development. Chairman of the National Council of Sports, Ambrose Tashobya, reaffirmed government’s commitment to completing all ongoing sports infrastructure projects as part of Uganda’s preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). He noted that the facilities are intended to serve not only AFCON 2027, but also Uganda’s long-term sports development agenda and wider socio-economic transformation. The engagement highlighted the increasing importance of sports diplomacy as a bridge for strengthening bilateral relations, fostering cultural exchange, attracting investment, and positioning Uganda as an emerging regional hub for sports excellence and international cooperation.