By As the dust settles on Uganda’s historic run at the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, players and organizers say the tournament has left a lasting impact beyond the pitch, setting the stage for the much-anticipated AFCON 2027.
Uganda Cranes stars, led by playmaker Allan Okello, Reagan Mpande, and Rogers Torach, used a media address at the Uganda Media Centre to thank fans for their unwavering support. The trio noted that reaching the quarterfinals Uganda’s best-ever performance at CHAN was a milestone made possible by the “energy and passion of the fans.”
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“We wanted more, but making it to the quarterfinals was history for us,” Okello said, urging Ugandans to continue filling Namboole Stadium for the remaining fixtures. “This tournament created memories not only for us as players, but also for fans. Let’s carry this spirit into AFCON 2027.”
Mpande echoed the call, adding that the fans’ role was central in lifting the team’s performance. “Though our journey in CHAN ended, we ask Ugandans to keep supporting — the tournament is not yet over, and AFCON 2027 is coming.”
Beyond football, CHAN 2024 has delivered tangible national benefits. Dr. Dennis Mugimba, Chairperson of the Local Organising Committee, highlighted the tournament’s economic and social dividends.
He noted that Entebbe International Airport recorded its highest passenger traffic ever in July, partly due to CHAN visitors, a clear signal of sports tourism’s potential. He also revealed that CAF officially handed over LED screens installed at Namboole to the stadium, boosting infrastructure for future events.
“Our young people are now asking for jerseys of local football heroes. That shows CHAN has inspired a generation,” Mugimba said. “We have tested our ability to organize a major tournament, and this gives us confidence ahead of AFCON 2027.”
He added that hundreds of private-sector service providers from security to catering had gained experience, proving Uganda’s readiness to host continental events.
With the semi-finals and final still to be played, officials encouraged Ugandans to attend the last matches and celebrate Uganda’s successful co-hosting.
“The memories created at CHAN 2024 will live on, but the bigger journey continues with AFCON 2027,” Mugimba stressed.
