KAMPALA — The Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC) has requested Shs 32 billion to finance the broadcast of the Africa Cup of Nations 2027, as Uganda prepares to co-host the continental tournament alongside Kenya and Tanzania.
Officials from the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance presented the funding request to Parliament’s ICT Committee during scrutiny of the 2026/27 ministerial policy statement.
Permanent Secretary Amina Zawedde told legislators that the funds are required to support a wide range of broadcast-related activities, including procurement of equipment, acquisition of broadcasting rights, production for television and radio, and promotional campaigns.
“This money is needed for procurement of equipment, securing broadcasting rights, production for both TV and radio, and promotions across eleven stations,” she said.
According to the ministry, UBC plans to leverage its nationwide network of stations to deliver coverage of the tournament, which is expected to attract significant regional and global audiences.
However, the government expects relatively modest direct financial returns. Zawedde told the committee that UBC projects approximately Shs 2 billion in revenue from AFCON 2027.
The projection has drawn scrutiny from lawmakers, with some members questioning the viability of the investment. Committee chairperson Tonny Ayoo reportedly called for more detailed analysis, noting that the revenue estimate is based on earnings from a previous CHAN tournament.
Members of Parliament also raised concerns about UBC’s existing debt burden, estimated at about Shs 100 billion, and queried how the broadcaster plans to manage its financial obligations alongside the new funding request.
In response, the ministry indicated it has engaged the Ministry of Finance to explore additional support to address outstanding arrears and ensure the broadcaster is adequately prepared for the tournament.
AFCON 2027 will mark the first time Uganda hosts matches of Africa’s premier football competition, placing added pressure on national infrastructure — including broadcasting — to meet international standards.
