Brigadier Richard Karemire, the Chief of Education in the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF), has emphasized the value of unity, education, and collaboration between the army and the media, noting that both institutions play vital roles in serving Uganda and fostering national progress.

Speaking on Monday at Philip Omondi Stadium in Lugogo, after a friendly football match between UPDF officers and members of the media, Brig. Karemire applauded the Human Rights Network for Journalists–Uganda (HRNJ-Uganda) for organizing the event. He described the occasion as a platform to enhance mutual respect, strengthen understanding, and nurture enduring friendships between the two groups.

Highlighting the UPDF’s dedication to education and national growth, Brig. Karemire said the army continues to support thousands of children and champion learning within its communities. He lauded the cooperation between soldiers and journalists as a reflection of 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 stated. He went on to encourage both professions to use their influence to promote peace and development, stressing that Uganda’s advancement depends on an informed and united citizenry.

HRNJ-Uganda’s Executive Director, Robert Ssempala, in turn, expressed gratitude to the UPDF for taking part in the event and embracing dialogue through sport. He said the friendly match demonstrated that collaboration between the military and media is not only achievable but also crucial 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. As the country heads toward another election season, he urged that journalists be safeguarded while executing their duties, emphasizing that they are partners in promoting transparency and accountability, not enemies of the state.

Ssempala also acknowledged the support of the Embassies of Ireland, the Netherlands, Sweden, and Denmark through the PACER Program, which funds HRNJ-Uganda’s initiatives to advance media freedom and human rights.

The spirited match concluded with the UPDF edging out the media team 1–0. Both sides exchanged congratulations and reaffirmed their commitment to promoting peace, mutual understanding, and continued collaboration. Ssempala remarked that although the media team did not win, the true victory lay in the unity and strengthened relationship between journalists and the army.

After the game, players from both teams mingled during a cocktail reception and pledged to take part in future engagements under HRNJ-Uganda’s partnership and outreach program. The event took place against the backdrop of ongoing tensions between the media and security agencies over alleged human rights abuses and suppression of press freedoms, particularly during election and opposition coverage.