Uganda has officially become the first country in East Africa to join the Invictus Games Foundation, marking a major milestone that will see its wounded, injured and sick military personnel compete on the global stage for the first time.
The announcement was made on 7 July during the 14th Invictus Games Foundation Conversation at Chatham House in London, where Uganda was confirmed as the 26th nation to join the international Invictus community ahead of the 2027 Games in Birmingham.
Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex and Patron of the Invictus Games Foundation, welcomed Uganda’s admission, describing the expansion as part of the Foundation’s mission to reach more service personnel recovering from injury and illness.
“Growth has never been about numbers. It’s about reaching those who need us most, building partnerships that last and ensuring that no one feels they’re making this journey alone,” Prince Harry said.
Uganda’s admission means the country will make its debut at the 2027 Invictus Games in Birmingham, where wounded and injured military personnel from around the world compete in adaptive sports designed to support their recovery and rehabilitation.
Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs Kiryowa Kiwanuka described the development as a significant achievement for Uganda and a recognition of the country’s commitment to supporting soldiers injured in the line of duty.
He thanked Prince Harry and the Invictus Games Foundation for welcoming Uganda into the movement.
“This milestone reflects our shared commitment to wounded, injured and sick servicemen and women who have sacrificed greatly in service to our nation,” Kiwanuka said.
He added that Uganda believes military personnel who have dedicated their lives to serving the country deserve opportunities to recover, rebuild their lives and regain confidence through sport.
Uganda’s membership follows a partnership agreement signed between the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Invictus Games Foundation in October 2025 to strengthen rehabilitation programmes for wounded soldiers.
As part of the process, representatives from the Foundation visited Uganda to assess the country’s rehabilitation facilities, meet injured service personnel and their families, and tour the Mubende Defence Forces Rehabilitation and Vocational Centre, where they also donated sports equipment.
The Invictus Games, founded by Prince Harry in 2014, use sport as a tool to help wounded, injured and sick service personnel and veterans recover physically, mentally and socially while inspiring others through resilience and determination.
