The Local Organizing Committee (LOC) of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 in Uganda has intensified efforts to bring the tournament closer to Ugandans through the establishment of Fan Parks across the country. These Fan Parks are aimed not only at providing an alternative viewing experience for Uganda Cranes’ matches but also at popularizing the tournament in all regions of the country.
The initiative, led by KIBO Media Ltd, which has already proven successful, gives fans a chance to gather in large numbers and experience CHAN 2024 in a stadium-like atmosphere, even if they cannot physically attend games at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole. Each Fan Park is equipped with giant screens for live broadcasts, alongside entertainment programs, music performances, food stalls, and interactive activities that create a carnival mood before kickoff.
According to Dr. Dennis K. Mugimba, the LOC Chair of the Communications and Signage Subcommittee, the strategy is to make CHAN 2024 a truly nationwide celebration of African football.
“The Fan Parks are not just about the Uganda Cranes; they are about giving Ugandans everywhere a chance to participate in this continental tournament. We want to ensure that the spirit of CHAN 2024 reaches every community,” Dr. Mugimba emphasized in its latest briefing.
On Match day One, the Fan Parks were set up in Gulu, King’s Park Bweyogerere and at the Kampala Old Taxi Park.
During Match Day Two, they were in Mbarara, King’s Park Bweyogerere- Fun Park, Kawempe. On Match Day Three, they were in Jinja, Nateete at Capital City, and King’s Park Bweyogerere (for both Match day Three and match Day Four). Thousands of football fans gathered to watch the matches and cheer for their favorite teams. The lively scenes of dancing, singing, and cheering showed how Ugandans across various regions are welcoming the tournament as their own.
This week, the excitement continues in central and western Uganda. On Monday, August 18, Fan Parks will be hosted at Kyadondo Rugby Grounds in Kampala, Café Milano in Masindi, and King’s Park Arena in Bweyogerere (Wakiso District). Gates will open at 3 p.m., and fans can expect live entertainment from top Ugandan artistes before the evening’s matches are screened live.
The timing of these Fan Parks coincides with Uganda Cranes’ highly anticipated clash against South Africa at Namboole Stadium. With all tickets for the match sold out by Friday evening, the parks provide an ideal solution for fans who still want to be part of the experience in a safe and exciting environment.
So far, Uganda’s fixtures have pulled record attendances, with an average of 34,000 fans filling Namboole whenever the Cranes play. Fan Parks have become an important complement, helping to manage congestion while ensuring that Ugandans everywhere can celebrate together.
The LOC has assured that security at all Fan Parks will be prioritized, with family-friendly settings to welcome supporters of all ages. As Uganda pushes for a historic quarterfinal qualification, the Fan Parks are expected to swell with supporters, united in their passion for football and national pride.
From Jinja to Arua, Masindi to Kampala, CHAN 2024 has become more than just a tournament; it is a festival of unity, culture, and continental football spirit.