UPDF Takes Commanding Lead In Inter-Forces Games Medal Haul

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) took a commanding lead in the medal standings at the 18th Edition of the Inter-Forces Games in Gulu, winning a significant number of gold, silver and bronze medals across various sporting disciplines.

The achievement was celebrated during a medal-awarding ceremony organized by the Chairman of the Inter-Forces Games Organising Committee, Maj Gen Richard Karemire, who commended participants for their commitment, energy and competitive spirit throughout the games.

The games were held under the theme “Building Synergy Through Sports,” which Maj Gen Karemire said was deliberately chosen to underscore the role of sports in fostering teamwork, cooperation and cohesion among security personnel.

“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,” he said.

Maj Gen Karemire applauded the participants for maintaining focus and demonstrating high levels of discipline and enthusiasm.

He said the excitement that comes with winning medals, particularly gold, is a feeling he experienced during his own formative years.

“I know it is very exciting to receive medals, especially gold medals. I also experienced the same success when I was a young man,” Maj Gen Karemire said.

He urged commanders and team leaders to ensure that participants remained focused on the broader objective of the Inter-Forces Games, noting that the event was not solely about winning medals but also about strengthening cooperation among the security forces.

The games brought together personnel from the various security forces who competed in disciplines including darts, football, shooting, handball and volleyball, among others, in pursuit of overall honours.

Among the officials who attended the ceremony were the Deputy Director Welfare, Production and Sports, SCP Anango Timothy; 4 Infantry Division Deputy Division Commander, Col Richard Obura; 4 Infantry Division Administration Officer, Col JM Ssemmanda; Col Orombi Oloya; CP Muluya; SSP Ritah Naponza; and AC Bashir Hangi, among others.