Africa-Press – Uganda. The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has rolled out a series of sports activities in Kabale Municipality, bringing together UPDF teams and Kabale Municipality sides in football and netball matches, alongside a community marathon, as part of the build-up to the Tarehe Sita national celebrations.
As part of the programme, a 12-kilometre marathon was held at Kabale Stadium, attracting participants from Kabale Municipality and the wider Kigezi sub-region.
In the men’s category, Kamutwiire Gibert emerged the winner after clocking 24:27, followed by Nuwagaba Louis at 24:44, and Katurebe Edison in third place with a time of 25:21.
In the women’s race, Nemigisha Edinah claimed top honours with a time of 28:56, followed by Nisiima Misheal at 31:03, and Nakunda Faith in third at 40:15.
A highlight of the marathon was Nemigisha Edinah, a pupil at God’s Favour Nursery and Primary School, who said her prize would help her take a step closer to achieving her sporting dreams.
She explained that the support would enable her to acquire basic sports equipment, allowing her to train better and further develop her talent.
Speaking during the marathon, Kabale Resident District Commissioner, Major (Rtd) Godfrey Katamba, commended the UPDF for using sports to strengthen civil-military relations.
“These activities are a game changer in bringing the army closer to the people, while also promoting sports talent development among our youth,” Maj Katamba said.
He emphasised that economic survival today requires more than academic excellence alone, noting the importance of complementing formal education with practical skills such as sports.
UPDF Joint Staff for Formal Education, Sports and Culture, Brigadier General Richard Karemire, said the decision to take the activities to the Kigezi sub-region was deliberate, reflecting appreciation for the long-standing support the region has given the UPDF.
He highlighted the historical role played by the people of Kigezi during Uganda’s liberation struggles, including their contributions in manpower, logistics, and sacrifices made for national freedom.
Brig Gen Karemire added that the marathon reflected the UPDF’s identity as a people-centred force committed to peace, unity, and national development, with sports remaining a key pillar in fostering national cohesion.
“We encourage the people of Kigezi to actively participate in national sports activities because sports build discipline, unity, and a strong nation,” he said.
The football and netball matches between UPDF teams and Kabale Municipality sides are scheduled for Wednesday, continuing the spirit of unity and community engagement as the country counts down to the 45th anniversary of Tarehe Sita.
