UPDF Opens Workshop On Athletes’ Fitness And Safety

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has opened a Pre-Participation Physical Evaluation workshop at the Land Forces Headquarters to promote athletes’ health, fitness and safety ahead of sports competitions.

While opening the workshop, the Joint Staff Formal Education, Sports and Culture, Major Gender Richard Karemire, commended the UPDF leadership for promoting sports within the force and beyond, noting its role in fostering friendship and cooperation among security forces at local, regional and international levels.

Maj Gen Karemire emphasised the importance of physical fitness in improving personal health, enhancing mental well-being and preventing diseases.

He urged sports officers and personnel to train, plan and prepare adequately ahead of the 18th edition of the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Cup competitions, scheduled to take place in Gulu in 2027.

He also revealed that the UPDF would participate in next year’s Invictus Games in the United Kingdom, an international sporting event that uses sports to support the recovery and rehabilitation of injured service personnel.

The workshop will focus on medical assessments aimed at establishing athletes’ fitness and suitability for participation in sports. These included cardiovascular examinations, blood pressure checks, musculoskeletal assessments and body mass index measurements to identify potential health risks and promote athletes’ safety.

In attendance were the Director of Sports, Lt Col Andrew Kulu; UPDF Sports In-charge, Maj Henry Mwijuka; and sports officers from the various UPDF Services and Divisions.