Kampala, Uganda: Uganda has officially joined the Invictus community, becoming the first country in East Africa to join the global movement that uses sport to support the recovery and rehabilitation of wounded, injured and sick military personnel and veterans.
The milestone was announced following Uganda’s formal admission into the Invictus Games Foundation, clearing the way for the country to make its debut at the Invictus Games Birmingham 2027.
Speaking on the development, the Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon Kiryowa Kiwanuka, said Uganda’s inclusion reflects the government’s commitment to honouring and supporting men and women who have sacrificed in service to the nation.
“This partnership affirms our belief that those who have borne the burdens of service deserve every opportunity to rebuild their lives with dignity, purpose, and hope,” Kiwanuka said.
He added that Uganda is looking forward to proudly participating in the Invictus Games Birmingham 2027, marking a historic first for both the country and the East African region.
Uganda’s admission into the Invictus community follows the signing of a formal partnership agreement between the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MODVA) and the Invictus Games Foundation in October 2025.
The partnership seeks to strengthen rehabilitation programmes for wounded, injured and sick members of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and veterans by incorporating sport into their physical, psychological and social recovery.
Officials say participation in the Invictus movement will complement existing rehabilitation initiatives by providing service personnel with opportunities to rebuild confidence, improve physical fitness and reconnect with society through adaptive sports.
The Invictus Games Foundation brings together countries committed to using sport as a powerful tool for recovery, resilience and inclusion among wounded military personnel.
Uganda’s admission makes it the first East African nation to join the international community, expanding Africa’s representation within the movement.
Government officials believe the partnership will not only benefit wounded service personnel but also strengthen awareness of veterans’ welfare and the importance of long-term rehabilitation after military service.
The development also reinforces Uganda’s commitment to supporting those who have served the country by creating opportunities for recovery, empowerment and international participation.
Background
The Invictus Games were founded in 2014 by Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, as an international adaptive multi-sport competition for wounded, injured and sick serving and former military personnel. The Games promote recovery through sport while inspiring participants to overcome physical and psychological challenges.
Since their inception, the Games have attracted competitors from dozens of countries worldwide, highlighting resilience, courage and the enduring spirit of service. Uganda’s debut at the 2027 Birmingham Invictus Games will mark the country’s first participation in the prestigious event.
If you would like your article/opinion to be published on Uganda’s most authoritative news platform, send your submission on: [email protected]. You can also follow DailyExpress on WhatsApp and on Twitter (X) for realtime updates.
