The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) boxing team showcased an outstanding performance during the final matches at the African Military Games held in Abuja, Nigeria, on November 25, 2024.
The team brought home an impressive tally of four gold medals and two silver medals.
In the men’s division, Private Ochan Geoffrey (light flyweight) shone brightly, securing gold by defeating Nigeria’s Adegbamiji Akeem in a swift two minutes during the second round. Team captain Private Innocent Amoko (light welterweight) also triumphed, earning gold with a commanding win over Nigeria’s Qozeem Qoyum. Meanwhile, Pte James Jopyem (bantamweight) and Pte Adam Jamidali (cruiserweight) both claimed silver medals after facing tough competition from Kenya’s Stephine Onaja and Algeria’s Kanoun Oussum, who took gold in their respective categories.
The women’s team also excelled, with two gold medals to their name. Private Joyce Kugonza (featherweight) dominated her match against Nigeria’s Pamilerin Akintayo, finishing in the third minute of the second round.
Additionally, Pte Erina Namutebi (light welterweight) impressed with a solid victory over Nigeria’s Blessing Oben, completing her match within the allotted time.
Brig. Gen. Richard Karemire, the Joint Staff Officer for Formal Education, Sports, and Culture, praised the team and the UPDF leadership for their steadfast 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.
