The Uganda People’s Defence Force announced today that the country will not participate in the upcoming Invictus Games, a sports competition for wounded veterans organised by the Duke of Sussex, Prince Harry.
General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s chief of defence and son of President Yoweri Museveni, posted the decision on X, emphasising that the withdrawal was taken "in order not to be construed as being opposed to His Majesty King Charles III of the United Kingdom, whom we deeply revere." He added that the UPDF would only join any event that had the King's approval.
The announcement follows earlier July statements that Uganda would join the Games, a move made when Prince Harry was in London promoting the event. However, the decision was reversed less than two months later, after reports that the military chief had expressed concerns over what he termed the “Harry‑Meghan nonsense.”
Government spokesman Alan Kasujja told the BBC that “General Kainerugaba decides whether or not the UPDF participates in the Invictus Games. If it changes, he will let the world know.” This stance comes as Royal sources have clarified that King Charles III encourages projects supporting wounded service personnel, though the King has not formally approved Uganda’s participation.
The Invictus Games, set for next year in Birmingham, have had 26 countries participate so far. No official confirmation has been received from the organisers about Uganda’s withdrawal, though they are seeking clarification from contacts in Uganda.
