UPDF Scoops 3 Medals In The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Run 5th Edition

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces won two gold medals and one silver medal in the concluded 5^th edition of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) run that took place today at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds in Kampala. The run under the theme, “Running for energy Access” was grouped into three categories that included,10km, 15km and 17km.

The run was flagged off by the First Deputy Prime Minister, Rt. Hon Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga who thanked all those that honored the invitation to participate in the run. “Many times we are driven by money and profits but for one to set time and participate in such events not for show off but driven by conviction and the inner drive to contribute to the Society, is a wonderful gesture. It implies SDG is investing in the lives of their people, their children and their relatives,” said Hon. Kadaga.

She commended Youth Go Green, the organizers of the run for their relentless dedication to the cause and thanked all the sponsors and partners who made the Marathon possible. They included; Diamond Trust Bank, National Enterprises Corporation (NEC), World Wide fund for nature-WWF, Uganda Communications Commission among other partners.

The Minister of State for Minerals, Hon. Peter Lokeris reminded the guests that the annual SDG Run continues to raise awareness about the SDGs and to promote active engagement in assessing progress by involving persons from all walks of life and re-emphasizing that the SDGs are for everyone, in line with the unequivocal commitment made as part of Agenda 2030 of: Living No One Behind.

He thanked UPDF for exhibiting the spirit of togetherness by always positively responding to the cry of Wanaichi as a professional, Peoples’ Army.

The acting Chief of Education, Sports and Culture Col Deus Tarema said the SDG Run focuses on creating a long-lasting special relationship with the people, keep physically fit to avoid the danger from Non-Communicable Diseases like High Blood Pressure.

Mr. Samuel Matekha, the Head of Communication and Marketing at Diamond Trust Bank lauded UPDF for having been part of the SDG Run and added that such landmark engagements with the population truly reflect UPDF as a pro-people Army, ready to work with the population in ensuring peace and stability so that prosperity can become evident.

The event was marked with an award of medals where three (03) UPDF Soldiers were awarded Gold and Silver Medals. Pte Nokrach Stephen Gold Medal, Pte Among Suzan Gold Medal whereas Pte Etiang Robert was awarded the Silver Medal.

The 5^th SDG Run is an annual event in Uganda dedicated to promoting the United Nations sustainable development goals led by Youth Go Green and supported by a diverse range of stakeholders, the run symbolizes a collective commitment to sustainable development and inspires Ugandans to take action for a better more sustainable future.