The Uganda People’s Defence Force team, UPDF-Mission, that participated in the 11th Edition of East African Community Military Games and cultural Event won two silver medal in Netball and football respectively; a bronze medal in volleyball, cross country and basketball apiece.

This made Uganda come second after Kenya, with Tanzania in third position while the host Burundi came in fourth position.

The event closed on Tuesday in the Burundian capital Bujumbura.

Held at Prince Luis Rwagasore National Stadium, the games attracted four of the five EAC member states of: Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda.

The First Vice President of the Republic of Burundi, H.E Gaston Sindimwo on behalf of the President of the Republic of Burundi was the Chief Guest at the colourful ceremony.

In his remarks, Sindimwo congratulated all players, commending organizers for the efforts toward the success of the gala.

“While each individual in each of the teams fought hard to score that extra goal, and to run the fastest race to raise the national flags, collectively our national flags constituted a single winning flag, the flag of the East African Community that symbolize a collective unity of the people of East Africa,” he said.

He also hailed the Defence leaders of EAC Partner States for the constant support and commitment to the EAC Military Games, describing the participation of the troops in sports as an engine for friendship, solidarity, co-operation and comradeship that runs the community as people of one destiny.

The Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs of Burundi, Emmanuel NtahoMvukiye in his part, noted that through sports, soldiers have got the opportunity to interact with fellow comrades and also keep fit as Forces in the EAC.

Lt Gen Prime Nyongabo, Burundi Chief of General Staff appealed to EAC Member states to always work together for the interest of the EAC partner states and Military relations through joint activities as required by Article 2 of the EAC protocol.

Uganda was represented by the Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs, Dr. Bright Rwamirama, Deputy Chief of Defence Forces, Lt General Wilson Mbadi, and Uganda’s Defence attaché to Burundi, BrigFred Tolit.