UPDF Games in Masaka Bolster Combat Readiness and Camaraderie
MASAKA, Uganda – A series of competitive games designed to sharpen skills and strengthen unity within the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) concluded successfully at Masaka Senior Secondary School, with senior commanders highlighting the events’ direct impact on operational readiness.
The two-week event, featuring range shooting, football, and netball competitions, was hailed as a key initiative for enhancing combat preparedness and fostering the spirit of the “UPDF family.”
The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, was the guest of honour and was praised for his unwavering commitment to team building. The Deputy Chief of Defence Forces (DCDF), Lt. Gen. Sam Okiding, described the CDF as “a true team player” and drew a direct line from the competition to the battlefield.
Reflecting on the precision displayed during the shooting exercises, Lt. Gen. Okiding stated, “The precision witnessed on the shooting range demonstrated that if these games were an operation against a rebel group, only a coward would have survived by running away.”
The success of the games was attributed to the steadfast support of the CDF by Brig. Gen. Richard Karemire, of the Joint Staff for Formal Education, Sports and Culture.
Maj. Gen. Deus Sande, the Host Division Commander, expressed his gratitude, thanking the CDF for honouring the event and the people of Masaka with his presence.
In his address, the CDF congratulated all participants and organizers, reaffirming the core message of the games that in the spirit of the UPDF, “there are no losers.” He urged soldiers to carry the vital lessons of discipline, precision, and camaraderie learned from the competitions back into their daily duties for the nation.
The activities served as a powerful demonstration of the UPDF’s commitment to maintaining a highly skilled, cohesive, and ready force.
