18th Edition Of InterForces Games Opens In Gulu

The 18th edition of the Interforces Games opened in Gulu City, bringing together personnel from the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces, Uganda Police Force, Uganda Prisons Service and the Uganda Wildlife Authority under the theme, “Building Synergy Through Sports.”

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka, commended President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for restoring peace in Acholi and enabling Gulu to rebuild and develop.

Hon. Kiwanuka said the games go beyond competition and provide an avenue to promote unity, teamwork, discipline and professionalism, which he described as essential values in the security sector.

He also commended the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, for fostering cooperation among the different security services.

“Our mandates may differ, but our purpose is to serve the nation and the country, Uganda,” Kiwanuka said.

He urged participants to uphold discipline, fair play and mutual respect throughout the championship.

State Minister for Internal Affairs, Hon. Juma Witonze, said sports teach participants teamwork, respect for rules, humility in victory and resilience in defeat.

He added that the Interforces Games provide an opportunity for personnel from different services to interact, build relationships and strengthen cooperation.

The Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, Lt Gen Sam Okiding, described the games as an important exercise for strengthening unity and the collective capacity of Uganda’s security forces.

The Joint Staff for Formal Education, Sports and Culture, Maj Gen Richard Karemire, thanked the 4 Division Commander for supporting the local community and the administration of St. Joseph’s College Layibi, which is hosting the games.

Maj Gen Karemire said the participation of senior leaders from the different services demonstrates the cooperation and unity among Uganda’s security forces.

He emphasised that the games are not only about competition but also about promoting physical fitness, teamwork, discipline and institutional pride.

“For security and uniformed forces, physical fitness is not just a requirement; it is an essential part of operational readiness,” Maj Gen Karemire said.

The 4 Infantry Division Commander, Maj Gen Wilberforce Sserunkuma, said the Interforces Games are not merely about winning trophies and medals but provide an important platform for building mutual respect and cooperation among security agencies and institutions.

In the opening football match, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) played to a 1-1 draw.