The Chief of Education in the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF), Brigadier Richard Karemire, has underscored the importance of unity, education, and collaboration between the military and the media, emphasizing that both serve the nation and must work together for Uganda’s progress.
Speaking at Philip Omondi Stadium in Lugogo on Monday, following a friendly football match between UPDF personnel and media members, Brigadier Karemire commended the Human Rights Network for Journalists–Uganda (HRNJ-Uganda) for organizing the event. He described the occasion as an opportunity to promote mutual respect, deepen understanding, and build lasting friendships.
Brigadier Karemire highlighted the army’s commitment to education and national development, noting that the UPDF actively supports thousands of children and promotes learning within its communities. He praised the collaboration between soldiers and journalists, saying it reflects professionalism and shared patriotism.
“We thank the organizers for this special occasion. Events like this remind us of the importance of education and care, especially for the more than ten thousand children we support, including those from the community,” he said. He further urged both groups to use their platforms to advance peace and development, stressing that Uganda’s progress relies on an informed and cooperative citizenry.
Robert Ssempala, Executive Director of HRNJ-Uganda, expressed appreciation to the UPDF for participating and embracing dialogue through sport. He said the event shows that collaboration between the military and media is both possible and essential for democracy and national stability.
“We appreciate the UPDF for joining us in this friendly engagement. It shows that we can work together in harmony even when we play on different sides,” Ssempala said. He added that as another election season approaches, journalists must be protected while performing their duties in the field, emphasizing that they are partners in promoting transparency and accountability, not enemies of the state.
Ssempala also extended gratitude to the Embassies of Ireland, the Netherlands, Sweden, and Denmark for their support through the PACER Program, which funds HRNJ-Uganda’s work advancing media freedom and human rights. The match, played in the spirit of friendship and sportsmanship, ended with the UPDF narrowly defeating the media team 1-0.
Both sides congratulated each other and pledged to continue engaging in activities that promote peace, understanding, and cooperation. Ssempala noted that while the media team did not win the game, they achieved something greater: unity and strengthened relations with the army.
Following the match, both teams shared light moments during a cocktail party and promised to participate in future engagements organized under HRNJ-Uganda’s partnership and outreach program. The event comes amid ongoing tensions between the media and security forces over human rights violations and alleged suppression of press freedoms, especially during opposition and election coverage.
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