The International Peace Support Operations Training Centre (IPSO-TC) has launched an inter-departmental football tournament to enhance the physical and mental stamina of troops.
The Commandant of the center, Colonel Moses Nabaasa, officially opened the competition on Monday. The event aligns with a wider military directive to prioritize operational fitness and discipline across the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF).
The tournament runs under the theme: “Promoting Teamwork, Fitness, Discipline and Unity among Staff and the Trainees.”
During the opening ceremony, Colonel Nabaasa stressed the vital link between competitive sports and battle readiness. He noted that physical conditioning remains a core requirement for personnel preparing for international peace-support missions.
"I call upon all personnel to actively participate in sports activities as a way of keeping fit and ensuring battle readiness," Colonel Nabaasa stated.
The Commandant also announced a new mandatory 20-kilometer route march to be held every month. This initiative follows specific orders from the Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, regarding endurance. Colonel Nabaasa explained that these marches foster resilience and mental alertness among the ranks.
The opening football match between the Medical Department and 147 BN, BG 47, resulted in a 1–1 draw. The competition features six teams divided into two groups, representing various administrative and instructional departments.
Matches are scheduled to continue until April 28, 2026. Colonel Nabaasa urged all players to maintain fairness and excellence throughout the fixtures. He emphasized that such sporting events are essential for building a healthy and cohesive military force.
