The Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIGP) James Ocaya has highlighted the significance of sports within the Uganda Police Force, describing it as a vital tool for community policing, physical fitness and mental well-being among officers.
Ochaya made the remarks on Tuesday during the Police FC Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at the Uganda Police Force Headquarters in Naguru as part of the key club licensing requirements ahead of the new football season.
The meeting also brought club chairman SCP Timothy Halango, senior police officers, members of the club’s Executive Committee, staff, and other stakeholders.
Ocaya emphasized the importance of AGMs in promoting accountability and helping clubs prepare for future success.
“AGMs provide transparency and accountability for the season that has ended and also offer an opportunity to assess the challenges encountered as we prepare for the upcoming season,” he said before lauding the club for securing a permanent home at Kira Road Arena as well as the impressive league performance last season.
“For decades, Police FC has been a formidable force in Ugandan football, serving as a platform to promote discipline and hard work. Sports is one of our strongest tools for community policing. It enhances physical fitness and mental strength, making our officers better prepared for service delivery. That is why the Inspector General of Police launched the IGP Cup across the country to help us meet the requirements for EAPCO and the Inter-Forces Games,” added Ochya.
He further revealed plans to modernize the club’s home ground, thanking Uganda’s Ambassador to South Sudan, Dr. Yahya Ssemuddu, for mobilizing support towards the project.
“Once the architectural designs are complete, we believe it will become a state-of-the-art facility. I challenge the leadership to ensure Police FC becomes a model of good governance. To the players and technical team, remain focused, disciplined and united because your performance reflects the image of the Uganda Police Force and the values you represent.”
FUFA Executive committee member Ronnie Kalema noted that proper governance is essential to FUFA’s ambition of professionalizing the Uganda Premier League.
The 2005 champions finished seventh on the premier league table last season with 47 points from 30 matches.
