The Special Forces Command (SFC) has claimed overall victory in the second edition of the Chief of Defence Forces Inter-Forces Drill Competition, defeating other formations in a contest designed to test military precision, discipline and teamwork at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds.The 3rd Infantry Division finished second in the competition, which brought together UPDF formations to showcase their ability to execute demanding foot, sword, cane and marching drills with accuracy and coordination.
Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba congratulated the participating units for what he described as clear progress compared with the inaugural edition. His message was delivered by Deputy CDF and Inspector General of the UPDF, Lt Gen Sam Okiding.Gen Muhoozi said the experience gained from the first competition had produced noticeable improvements in precision, coordination and cohesion, demonstrating the value of continuous training and competition among military formations.He emphasised that military drill goes beyond parade-ground ceremonies, arguing that it builds habits of instant response, attention to detail, discipline and obedience to commands—qualities that are crucial when soldiers are deployed for complex security operations.The CDF linked the skills developed through drill to the UPDF’s operations in Uganda and its regional missions in the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan and Somalia. He also reaffirmed the army’s role as a “people’s army,” citing its contribution to national defence as well as wider national development activities.
The Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs praised President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and Gen Muhoozi for strengthening the UPDF into a disciplined and internationally respected force. He said the military’s core values of patriotism, discipline, Pan-Africanism and professionalism remain central to maintaining unity and preventing betrayal.Chief Judge Lt Gen (Rtd) Nakibus Lakara confirmed that participating teams were assessed using consistent and fair scoring standards, while Maj Gen Wycliffe Keita, Chief of UPDF Training and Doctrine and chairman of the implementation committee, said regular drill practice continues to sharpen combat readiness. The event attracted senior military commanders, Cabinet ministers, leaders of sister security agencies, NRM and PLU representatives and members of the public.
