The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) took a dominant lead in the overall medal standings at the 18th Edition of the Inter-Forces Games in Gulu City.
Military athletes captured a substantial tally of gold, silver, and bronze medals across multiple competitive disciplines throughout the tournament.
The Organizing Committee Chairman, Major General Richard Karemire, celebrated the UPDF's performance during a medal-awarding ceremony.
Maj. Gen. Karemire commended all participating contingents for exhibiting exceptional discipline, energy, and sportsmanship.
The 2026 games took place under the theme "Building Synergy Through Sports," highlighting athletic competition as a vehicle for inter-agency cohesion.
“Sports is a tool and a road to strengthening cooperation. To strengthen cooperation, we need to unite, make corrections amongst ourselves and work together so that we can deliver on the co-mandate given to us by our respective institutions,” Maj. Gen. Karemire said.
He urged security personnel to maintain focus and use the competition to reinforce camaraderie and operational alignment.
Maj. Gen. Karemire noted that while winning medals generates immense excitement, building institutional trust remains the primary goal of the tournament.
“I know it is very exciting to receive medals, especially gold medals. I also experienced the same success when I was a young man,” he shared while reflecting on his early career.
The multi-sport championship convened personnel from various security services to compete in shooting, football, netball, handball, volleyball, and darts.
Several senior officers attended the medal ceremony, including SCP Anango Timothy, Deputy Director of Welfare, Production and Sports, alongside 4 Infantry Division leaders Col. Richard Obura and Col. J.M. Ssemmanda.
Other dignitaries present included Col. Orombi Oloya, CP Muluya, SSP Ritah Naponza, and AC Bashir Hangi.
