The President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Dr. Patrice Motsepe, and Uganda’s First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni, were among the key figures in attendance as Uganda hosted the opening matches of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 at the newly refurbished Mandela National Stadium- Namboole.
Hon. Janet Museveni, who also serves as Chairperson of Uganda’s CHAN/AFCON Local Organising Committee, joined Dr. Motsepe at the stadium ahead of the kickoff between Uganda and Algeria. Their presence marked a significant moment for the country, reflecting high-level support for the tournament and Uganda’s role as host nation.
The evening featured two opening fixtures. Guinea secured a 1–0 win over Niger in the first match, before Uganda Cranes faced Algeria in a highly anticipated clash. Uganda lost 3–0 to the North African side, but the stadium remained full throughout, with fans turning up in large numbers to support the national team.
The appearance of both the CAF President and the First Lady at the opening games underscored the importance of CHAN 2024 not just as a football event, but as part of a broader agenda to promote sports as a vehicle for national development and continental cooperation.
Their attendance also demonstrated the Ugandan government’s strong commitment to supporting the growth of sports through investment in infrastructure, institutional leadership, and international collaboration.
The tournament now shifts to the next round of group matches. Uganda will be looking to bounce back in their second fixture against Guinea, while Algeria will take on South Africa in what promises to be a highly competitive encounter.