The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) boxing team delivered a stellar performance in the final bouts at the ongoing African Military Games in Abuja, Nigeria, on the night of 25 November 2024.
The team secured four gold medals and two silver medals.
In the men’s category, standout performances included Private Ochan Geoffrey (light flyweight), who won gold by defeating Nigeria’s Adegbamiji Akeem in just two minutes during the second round.
The team captain, Private Amoko Innocent (light welterweight), also clinched gold after a decisive victory over Nigeria’s Qozeem Qoyum.
On the other hand, Pte Jopyem James (bantamweight) and Pte Jamidali Adam (cruiserweight) both earned silver medals after defeats against Kenya’s Onaja Stephine and Algeria’s Kanoun Oussum, who took home gold medals in their respective divisions.
In the women’s category, the UPDF team excelled, claiming two gold medals. Private Kugonza Joyce (featherweight) outclassed Nigeria’s Pamilerin Akintayo, winning in the third minute of the second round.
Additionally, Pte Namutebi Erina (light welterweight) impressed with a victory over Nigeria’s Oben Blessing, finishing the match within regulation time.
Brigadier General Richard Karemire, the Joint Staff Officer for Formal Education, Sports, and Culture, commended the team and the leadership of the UPDF for their unwavering support.
“Special thanks go to our Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, for all his support that has been given to us. The sportsmen have done great work, they prepared well for the tournament, and these are fruits of hard work,” said Brig Gen Karemire.