Politics 7 October 2026 Nile Post
Hoima Leaders Urge Minister Asiimwe to Resolve AFCON Road Compensation Dispute
Hoima leaders and residents are seeking the intervention of Minister Jonard Asiimwe to address disagreements over compensation and land rights related to a planned 31-kilometer access road for the AFCON 2027 tournament. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/376284/hoima-leaders-seek-minister-asiimwes-intervention-in-afcon-road-dispute
Leaders and residents in Hoima City are appealing for the involvement of Minister of State for Science, Technology and Innovation, Jonard Asiimwe, amidst ongoing disputes concerning compensation for a planned 31-kilometer AFCON access road around the Hoima City Stadium.
The controversy surfaced in Parliament when Hoima East Division MP Patrick Isingoma highlighted potential disruptions to AFCON 2027 preparations if compensation issues remain unresolved.
However, Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja stated that the government has not budgeted for compensation for these specific Hoima roads, as they are upgrades to existing infrastructure rather than new constructions. She drew parallels with similar urban road improvement projects in Kampala.
The Minister of Works and Transport, Fred Byamukama, corroborated this, emphasizing that the roads in question are part of Hoima’s existing network. This official stance has not fully allayed concerns among some residents and those directly affected by the project, who seek clarity on road reserves, land rights, and compensation for any private property impacted.
In response to these unresolved concerns, some residents are turning to Minister Asiimwe, who also holds a significant position within the NRM for the western region, requesting his engagement with political figures, technical teams, and the community to facilitate a resolution.
The dispute unfolds as Uganda, alongside Kenya and Tanzania, prepares to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations. The government has committed substantial funds, with over Shs905 billion allocated for AFCON preparations, including Shs213 billion for road upgrades around stadiums in Hoima and Kampala.
Supporters of the road project argue that the infrastructure will enhance local connectivity and create economic opportunities. They believe that concerns regarding land and compensation should be handled through established legal channels without halting crucial development.
The situation in Hoima mirrors discussions in Lira City concerning road infrastructure around the Akii-Bua Stadium, another venue slated for AFCON. The debate is further complicated by the international recognition of Hoima City Stadium, which was recently honored as the Best Project in the Sports/Entertainment category at the Engineering News-Record Global Best Projects competition.
For those advocating for Minister Asiimwe’s intervention, the core issue is ensuring that community concerns are heard, compensation processes are transparent, and legitimate grievances are addressed through proper procedures, balancing infrastructure development with residents’ rights.