The Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE) has expressed concerns over the progress and quality of works at the Kyambogo University training ground facility. The committee chairperson, Muwada Nkunyingi, led a meeting with officials from the National Council of Sports (NCS), the Ministry of Works and Transport, and the UPDF Engineering Brigade to assess the project's implementation. The committee questioned the project's ability to meet the December deadline for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Legislators raised several discrepancies in the execution of the works, demanding explanations over the grading of different project phases, the positioning of the perimeter fence, and the feasibility of installing a synthetic running track. The committee also questioned the proposed conversion of dressing rooms into laboratories, seeking clarification on whether the changes were consistent with the originally approved project designs and intended use of the facility.
Particular concern was raised over the reported payment of 100 per cent of the project cost, estimated at more than Shs20 billion, before all construction works had been completed. The legislators demanded accountability from the implementing agencies, questioning how the funds had been utilised and whether the work delivered so far corresponds with the approved designs, specifications, and contractual obligations.
The project implementers defended the progress, explaining that construction had been undertaken in phases depending on available funding and priorities agreed upon with the supervising engineers. The officials maintained that the main playing pitch was ready for use, while outstanding works, including painting, installation of furniture, and completion of dressing rooms, were expected to be finalised within the agreed timeframe.
The explanations did not entirely settle the legislators' concerns, with the committee continuing to seek clarity on project execution, expenditure, and adherence to approved specifications. The Kyambogo facility is among the infrastructure projects intended to support Uganda's preparations for hosting major continental football activities.
The committee's scrutiny comes amid growing attention on the readiness of sports infrastructure, with Parliament seeking assurances that public funds allocated to the project will translate into quality facilities delivered within the stipulated timelines. COSASE is expected to continue engaging the responsible agencies to establish the extent of outstanding works, financial accountability, and whether the project will meet the December completion deadline.
The engagement between COSASE and the implementing agencies aims to ensure that the project is completed on time and within budget. The committee's concerns highlight the need for transparency and accountability in the use of public funds for infrastructure projects. The project's completion is crucial for Uganda's preparations to host AFCON.
Key points
- The Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE) has raised concerns over the progress and quality of works at the Kyambogo University training ground facility.
- Legislators questioned the proposed conversion of dressing rooms into laboratories and the reported payment of 100 per cent of the project cost before all construction works had been completed.
- The committee's scrutiny aims to ensure that public funds allocated to the project translate into quality facilities delivered within the stipulated timelines.
