KAMPALA, Uganda — The Government of Uganda is considering submitting a bid to host the 2031 FIFA World Cup, building on momentum from the country’s successful bid to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
The announcement was made by Kedrace Turyagyenda, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education and Sports (Uganda), while appearing before Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee of the Parliament of Uganda.
Dr. Turyagyenda said the government is already thinking about a potential 2031 World Cup bid as part of long-term sports infrastructure development plans.
She explained that Uganda’s strategy is currently focused on completing modern sports facilities capable of meeting international standards. The plan includes developing multiple stadiums across the country, each with a seating capacity exceeding 45,000 spectators.
“The big plan is infrastructure development. We are working to develop stadia in other regions. Eventually, if we are given the opportunity to host the World Cup, we must have facilities to run it,” she said.
She added that the government is targeting at least three major stadiums that could be considered suitable for international tournaments.
Sports Infrastructure Drive
Authorities say the push for better sports infrastructure is partly driven by Uganda’s growing youth population and increasing success in international athletics competitions.
Officials believe improved facilities could help professional athletes earn better incomes while strengthening Uganda’s global sports competitiveness.
Uganda’s hosting ambitions would require approval from the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), which oversees World Cup hosting rights.
Global Hosting Timeline
In 2025, FIFA members approved the hosting arrangements for upcoming tournaments. The FIFA World Cup 2030 was awarded jointly to Morocco, Portugal, and Spain, with centenary celebration matches scheduled in Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
The next World Cup after 2030 is expected to be hosted by Saudi Arabia in FIFA World Cup 2034.
Uganda’s potential bid would mark a major step in the country’s sports diplomacy and infrastructure transformation, although officials have not yet released detailed feasibility studies or budget estimates.
Government says discussions are still at an early stage, and further consultations will be conducted before any formal bid submission.
