Uganda will use the 2026 Africa Nations Cup UK to promote its tourism attractions to audiences in the United Kingdom and the African diaspora.
The tournament, now in its 14th year, brings together African communities in Britain through football, culture and national representation. Uganda is among 15 African nations taking part in this year’s edition, with support from Uganda’s High Commission in London.
Speaking during the tournament draw, Uganda’s High Commissioner to the UK, H.E. Nimisha Madhvani, said the partnership fits into the Mission’s efforts to promote Uganda under the Explore Uganda campaign.
“Sport is one of Uganda’s most powerful storytelling platforms,” she said. “When the Uganda Cranes take to the pitch here in London, we are also showcasing our mountain gorillas in Bwindi, the source of the Nile in Jinja, the breathtaking landscapes of Kabalega Falls (Murchison Falls), and the warmth of our people. Every goal scored is an invitation to visit Uganda.”
The High Commission says the tournament will be used to reach diaspora communities and promote Uganda’s wildlife, adventure, culture and hospitality.
Madhvani said the competition also offers a platform for African unity, bringing together communities with shared roots and different national identities.
Uganda will also take part in the U-18 competition, with young players of Ugandan heritage based in the UK expected to represent the country.
The tournament will be held from 27 to 28 June.
In the Senior Men’s Competition, Uganda has been drawn in Group B alongside Gambia, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire and Namibia.
Group A has Zanzibar, São Tomé and Príncipe, Guinea, Tanzania and Benin, while Group C has Zimbabwe, Cape Verde, DRC, Nigeria and South Africa.
In the U-18 Youth Competition, Uganda is in Group A with Tanzania and Gambia. Group B has Nigeria, Zimbabwe and Cape Verde.
