UPDF Leads Uganda to Victory at Africa Military Games in Abuja
The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) excelled at the Africa Military Games in Abuja, Nigeria, earning nine medals, including four golds. Their discipline and skill highlighted Uganda’s prominence in military sports.
The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) athletes demonstrated outstanding performance at the second edition of the Africa Military Games, held in Abuja, Nigeria, securing a total of nine medals, including four golds.
The event, organized by the Organisation for Military Sports in Africa (OSMA), took place from November 18 to November 30, 2024, and concluded with a grand closing ceremony at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium.
The ceremony was graced by several dignitaries, including the Vice President of Nigeria, H.E. Kashim Shettima, representing President H.E. Bola Ahmed Tinubu. In his address, Vice President Shettima commended the athletes for fostering African unity through sports and strengthening inter-nation relations.
“The existing unity in diversity is a strength that, when harnessed, can drive Africa’s socio-economic transformation and integration,” he remarked.
The UPDF’s remarkable achievements included gold medal victories in boxing by Pte Kugonza Joyce, Pte Amoko Innocent, Pte Namutebi Erina, and Pte Ocan James. Silver medals were earned by Pte Jopyem James and Pte Jamidali Adam in boxing, along with Pte Cheptoyek Ruth and Pte Chemutai Leonard in athletics. Sgt Chebet Emily contributed a bronze medal to Uganda’s commendable tally.
The Ugandan team received widespread accolades for their discipline and exceptional representation of the nation, further enhancing Uganda’s reputation in continental military sports.
This triumph comes as Uganda prepares to co-host the African Nations Championship (CHAN) in 2025 and the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2027, underlining the country’s growing prominence in international sports.
The closing ceremony was attended by senior government and military officials from across Africa, including Gen Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
