The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Defence Forces Rehabilitation and Vocational Centre (DFRVC) has received sports equipment from the Invictus Games Foundation to support the preparation of Ugandan athletes for the Birmingham 2027 Invictus Games.
The equipment was handed over at the Centre in Mubende, where the Joint Staff Political Commissariat, Major General Henry Masiko, described Uganda’s admission as the 26th member of the Invictus Games community as “a new spirit of transformation, patriotism, and service,” saying it reflects the country’s commitment to supporting wounded and injured service personnel through sport and rehabilitation.
He praised the Invictus Games Foundation and Play Hope Uganda for their continued support, noting that the partnership demonstrates confidence in Uganda’s athletes and their recovery journey.
He also recognised Play Hope Uganda’s contribution towards improving the Centre’s sporting infrastructure through the provision of equipment and materials that have enhanced the training environment.
“Ladies of Play Hope Uganda, you have made us proud today. Some of the items we have received are of great value addition, including improvements to the court. For now, let us give them a big applause,” Maj Gen Masiko said.
He encouraged UPDF athletes preparing for the Birmingham 2027 Invictus Games to remain focused, disciplined, and committed to intensive training.
“Success comes to those who are prepared. Let us not just go, but go with skill,” he said.
Maj Gen Masiko also commended the Commandant of the Defence Forces Rehabilitation and Vocational Centre, Brigadier General Moses Kwikiriza, for the visible transformation of the facility, saying the improvements in infrastructure, rehabilitation services, and training programmes were making a meaningful difference in the recovery and wellbeing of injured service personnel.
Maj Gen Masiko assured soldiers at the Centre that the UPDF and the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs remain committed to safeguarding their welfare, dignity, and opportunities for productive lives.
The Joint Staff Formal Education, Sports and Culture, Maj Gen Richard Karemire, said the donation was more than just equipment, describing it as “a vote of confidence in the resilience and potential of Uganda’s competitors.”
He said the support would inspire the athletes to train with renewed purpose and pursue excellence as they prepare to represent Uganda at the Birmingham 2027 Invictus Games.
Maj Gen Karemire reaffirmed the UPDF’s commitment to the values of courage, recovery, and camaraderie that define the Invictus Games, pledging that the team would represent Uganda with honour.
The Director of Play Hope Uganda, Ms Annet Nakamya, pledged continued technical support to the athletes, noting that the donated equipment, including sports attire, weightlifting equipment, and footballs, would enhance training and motivate competitors to perform with confidence and pride.
The handover ceremony was attended by the Deputy Commandant DFRVC, Brig Gen Richard Walekula; Assistant Commissioner Planning in the Directorate of Veteran Affairs, Ms Harriet Nabunnya; UPDF Staff Officer for Sports, Maj Henry Mwijuka; and other staff.
