As Uganda’s security forces showcased the heartbeat of military unity drill,the Internal Security Organization (ISO) that stole the show.

Emerging as the surprise overall winner at the inaugural Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Inter-Forces Drill Competition, ISO’s drill team captivated the crowd and judges alike. With flawless timing, synchronized sword and stick movements, and unmatched footwork, they clinched the title of Best Drill Team and Overall Champions, rising above the competition in a display of sheer discipline and unity.

The competition wasn’t just about choreography or marching it was a celebration of excellence, teamwork, and shared purpose among Uganda’s armed forces.

Presiding over the event was Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, whose vision for a modern, professional and people-centered UPDF shone clearly in both words and presence.

“You all did well each and every one of you,” Gen. Kainerugaba said, his voice steady with pride. “This spectacle has showcased the best that UPDF has to offer.”

More than a military showcase, the event carried a deeper message. Gen. Kainerugaba used the occasion to reaffirm his commitment to improving the lives of the men and women in uniform not just in word, but in action.

“We are working hard to improve soldiers’ welfare where they sleep, work, feed, access medical care, dress, move, and how their children access education,” he declared, drawing nods from soldiers and civilians alike.

A recent allocation of 50 billion shillings for new accommodations is just the beginning. Gen. Kainerugaba spoke from the heart, making it clear that behind the uniforms and drills are human beings with families, dreams, and needs and it is time those needs were met.

Spectators, many attending such an event for the first time, were moved not just by the military precision, but by the unity and humanity on display.

“Gen. Muhoozi’s focus on the lives of soldiers shows the strength and heart of the UPDF,” said Joseph Mutebi, a local resident who attended with his son. “This isn’t just about drills it’s about people.”

Opening the competition to civilians was no accident. “Military drills are a universal language,” Gen. Kainerugaba said. “Performed by the world’s best the British, the Russians and now, the UPDF. We wanted the public to see the pride of our forces.”

Under his leadership praised by President Yoweri Museveni for its “lethality and innovation” the UPDF is forging a new path: one that blends strength with compassion, tradition with progress.

The Inter-Forces Drill Competition may have crowned a champion, but it also ignited a new chapter one where the rhythm of marching feet is matched by the steady beat of a commander who cares.
CDF INTER FORCES DRILL
COMPETITION 2025 WINNERS
Best drill team and overall winner
– Internal Security Organization
(ISO), awarded 10 million shillings.
Best Creative Drill – Special Forces
Command (SFC), received a cheque of shs 5 million.
Best drill commander officer – Lt
D. Asere.
Best drill commander NCO (Non
Commissioned Officer) – Sgt
Mohammad Wasswa from ISO.

Best pro stick team – Air Force:32 PM
Best pro stick team – Air Force
Best pro stick team – Air Force
Best cane stick team – 3rd Infantry
Division.
Best cultural integration (creative
drill team)- SFC, received shs 10
million.
First runners up for best cultural
integration – 5th infantry division
Best sword drill team – ISO.