The African Export–Import Bank (Afreximbank) has extended a $36.4-million contract financing facility to Egypt’s SAMCO–National Construction Company (SAMCO) for the construction of the Akii Bua Olympic Stadium in Lira, Uganda.

The project is part of Uganda’s preparations to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) alongside Kenya and Tanzania. The funding was granted under Afreximbank’s Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) programme, which supports African contractors undertaking large-scale infrastructure projects across the continent.

Signed in Cairo, the agreement was formalised by Mrs Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President, Intra-African Trade and Export Development, Afreximbank, and Engineer Sameh Soliman, Chairman of SAMCO.

Mrs Awani said, “This partnership demonstrates our commitment to empowering African EPC companies and promoting sustainable economic growth through modern infrastructure.”

Engineer Soliman added, “This collaboration strengthens SAMCO’s position as a pan-African contractor delivering impactful projects that drive regional growth and development.”

The stadium project will enhance Uganda’s sports infrastructure, create employment, stimulate local supply chains, and promote tourism. It is also expected to strengthen Uganda’s capacity to host CAF- and FIFA-approved tournaments, marking a milestone in East Africa’s return to the continental football stage after nearly five decades.