The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) will hold the second edition of the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Inter-Forces Drill Competition from August 22 to 25, 2026, at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds.
The competition will be held under the theme “Precision, Discipline and Cohesion: Pillars of National Resilience and Transformation.”
According to UPDF Deputy Spokesperson Henry Obbo, the competition builds on the success of the inaugural edition held in May 2025, which attracted 16 teams and was won by the Internal Security Organisation (ISO).
This year’s edition has been expanded to more than 40 teams, bringing together over 1,400 participants from different UPDF branches and services.
Obbo said the competition will feature senior and junior officers, warrant officers and other ranks, who will showcase their skills through various military drill routines, including sword, crop stick, cane stick and foot drills.
The competition will also introduce creative elements such as theme-based drills, formation changes, synchronized displays, music, storytelling and dance.
The five top-performing teams will further compete in freestyle drill displays, combining military traditions with elements of Ugandan cultural heritage to showcase the UPDF’s identity.
Obbo said the competition is intended to promote excellence and precision in military drill, enhance operational readiness and esprit de corps, strengthen cooperation among branches and units, and foster discipline, creativity and teamwork among personnel.
In a move to give more UPDF personnel an opportunity to participate, Obbo said those who competed in last year’s edition will not take part in this year’s competition.
The Grand Finale on August 25 will be officiated by the Chief of Defence Forces and Special Presidential Advisor on Special Operations, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
Awards will be presented for the Best Drill Team and Best Drill Commander, alongside special recognition for innovation and cultural integration.
The UPDF has invited members of the public and the media to attend and support the competition, saying the event will not only demonstrate military precision and discipline but also strengthen the relationship between the Force and the communities it serves.
