KAMPALA – The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) is set to host the four-day second edition of the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Inter-Forces Drill Competition, showcasing military precision, discipline, and national pride.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The development was confirmed by Col. Henry Obbo, the Deputy Spokesperson of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, while addressing members of the press at the Uganda Media Centre in Kampala.
Col. Obbo confirmed that the second edition of the CDF Inter-Forces Drill Competition will be held at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds from August 22 to 25, 2026, with the Grand Finale set for the final day.
The event, themed “Precision, Discipline and Cohesion: Pillars of National Resilience and Transformation,” aims to promote military drill excellence, boost operational readiness, and strengthen camaraderie across force units.
Participants ranging from junior and senior officers to warrant officers and other ranks will compete in traditional military routines, including sword and crop stick drills, pace sticks, cane sticks, and foot drills.
Col. Obbo noted that the competition will also feature creative elements such as themed performances, synchronized formations, and music, marking an evolution from a purely traditional military contest into a broader display of talent and cohesion.
He added that the competition is designed to demonstrate the high levels of discipline and coordination required in military parades, describing it as an entertaining display that the public should not miss.
“This year’s competition will incorporate creative elements including themed performances, synchronized formations, and music. It marks an evolution from a purely traditional military drill contest into a broader showcase of talent, creativity, and cohesion,” Col. Obbo noted.
Col. Obbo confirmed that the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, is slated to officiate the Grand Finale, presenting awards for Best Drill Team, Best Drill Commander, and special recognition for innovation and cultural integration.
The 2026 competition will feature over 40 teams, with more than 1,400 participants from all UPDF branches and services set to compete, building on the success of the inaugural edition in May 2025, where the USO emerged as the overall winner.
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