The Local Organizing Committee (LOC) has confirmed that more than 3,000 fans attempting to access Namboole Stadium for the last three Uganda Cranes matches at CHAN 2024 were denied entry due to fake tickets.
Speaking at the Uganda Media Centre on Wednesday, 14th August 2025, Dr Dennis K. Mugimba, Chairperson of the LOC Communications and Signage Sub-Committee, explained how the counterfeit tickets were detected and traced.
Fans presenting poorly printed tickets, missing barcodes, or duplicates were refused entry. “When a ticket has been used before, the system automatically rejects it, and security asks the holder to step aside,” Dr. Mugimba said.
He noted that duplicate tickets often arise when a genuine ticket is printed multiple times or shared digitally.
“The system is intelligence-led, and security measures are robust. This ensures safety for fans and visiting delegations alike,” he added.
Most rejected tickets were presented at the Eastern Gate, causing congestion, though fans remained cooperative.
Dr. Mugimba urged football enthusiasts to avoid buying paper tickets to prevent wasting money.
CHAN 2024 has seen the Uganda Cranes deliver thrilling performances, including an impressive victory over Niger on Match Day Three.
Other Group C fixtures, such as Guinea vs. Algeria and Niger vs. South Africa, promise further excitement.
Fans are encouraged to purchase tickets online via official CAF platforms for the next match between Uganda and South Africa on Monday, 18th August 2025.
Dr. Mugimba emphasized that Uganda has been preparing for CHAN 2024 security and logistics since August 2024.
He also highlighted world-class stadium infrastructure at Namboole Main Stadium, Namboole Annexe, and Kyambogo Football Ground, which have successfully hosted six high-intensity matches in ten days.
Clarifying team accommodations, he said Uganda’s government covers hotel, security, and transport costs through a $13 million Caf commitment fee, while Caf approves and contracts the hotels.
Ticket pricing remains unchanged, and fans are encouraged to secure tickets online to enjoy the tournament without issues.
