The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) officially launched the 16th edition of the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Cup Tournament on Tuesday September 17 in Fort Portal City, Kabarole District.
Lieutenant General Kayanja Muhanga, Commander of the Land Forces, presided over the opening ceremony, highlighting the importance of physical fitness for military personnel.
“I have seen so many young people below 25 years failing to join the army because they are physically unfit,” Lt Gen Muhanga remarked. “I encourage you to do physical exercises to stay healthy,” he stressed.
The two-week long competition will see 19 UPDF formations and units compete in football and netball.
Major General Richard Otto, Commander of the Mountain Division and Operation Shujaa, the host of the tournament, acknowledged the significant contributions of President Yoweri Museveni, the event organizers, and the UPDF in making the event a success.
He also expressed his gratitude to the local community for their continued support.
Brig Gen Richard Karemire, the Joint Staff Formal Education, Sports, and Culture (JS FESC) official, outlined the tournament’s objectives. These include fostering physical and mental well-being, discipline, and teamwork within the UPDF.
Additionally, the CDF Cup aims to identify and nurture sports talent within the forces, promote professionalism, and strengthen civil-military relations.
The tournament kicked off with exciting matches. The Mountain Division secured a 1-0 victory over the Marine Brigade in football, while their netball team dominated Magamaga with a convincing 61-05 win.
The theme for this year’s CDF Cup is “Enhancing a culture of physical fitness and esprit de corps in UPDF through sports.”
