From Pitches to Courts: Kampala’s Emerging Urban Sports Culture for Youth”. Kampala, Uganda

Kampala is witnessing a lively evolution of its urban sports and recreation scene, as the city’s younger population seeks modern facilities, diverse activities and inclusive spaces beyond traditional football arenas. According to the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) strategic plan, the city aims to develop multipurpose sports centres (football fields, athletics tracks, tennis courts, etc.) and expand recreational facilities along the lakefront and in suburbs.

With approximately 75% of the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area population under 30, demand is strong for new sports venues, from informal futsal pitches to basketball, volleyball and padel tennis courts. Community‑based initiatives are also emerging: for example, in neighbourhoods like Makindye, youth empowerment groups are combining sports, arts and leisure to engage young people.

Despite the energy, obstacles remain. Many informal settlements still lack safe playing fields; newer courts and recreation hubs are concentrated in the more affluent areas of the city, leaving gaps in low‑income or densely populated zones. KCCA notes that “there are no well‑developed sports facilities to promote sports talent” as a persistent shortcoming.

For local athletes and startups alike, Kampala presents opportunity: increasing investments in recreation facilities, urban sport events and community hubs may generate jobs (coaches, facility operators), and build a stronger sports culture tied to well‑being and tourism. For The Urban Gazette’s audience, the message is clear: Kampala’s sport scene is shifting — from just a venue to play football to a full ecosystem of urban sport, youth culture and city‑life.