The Uganda Police Force (UPF) has joined 13 other elite Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) teams from Eastern Africa in the highly anticipated 2025 Rwanda EAPCCO SWAT Challenge.
This prestigious event, organized under the umbrella of the Eastern Africa Police Chiefs Cooperation Organization (EAPCCO), is taking place on the sidelines of the 26th EAPCCO Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Rwanda.
The AGM runs from January 28 to 30, 2025, drawing key security leaders and experts from across the region.
The EAPCCO SWAT Challenge is designed to foster regional collaboration, enhance tactical capabilities, and promote the exchange of best practices among member states.
Participating teams are competing in three core events that simulate high-stakes scenarios police units face in combating crime and terrorism:
- Tactical and Rescue Event: Focuses on complex real-world scenarios that require precision, strategic thinking, and effective rescue operations.
- Assault Event: Tests participants’ ability to plan and execute high-pressure, coordinated assault missions.
- Obstacle Event: Challenges teams to demonstrate peak physical endurance and agility while navigating demanding terrains and environments.
The competition evaluates teams on three key factors—speed, accuracy, and adherence to safety protocols and procedures.
Only those who excel in these areas will emerge victorious.
The Uganda Police Force is led by Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Tobias Ahumuza, the Commandant of Tactical and Neutralization Counter Terrorism.
Under his leadership, the team aims to showcase their expertise and bring pride to Uganda. Speaking before the event, SSP Ahumuza emphasized the importance of such regional engagements in sharpening operational skills and strengthening bonds between Eastern African police forces.
“The EAPCCO SWAT Challenge not only tests our skills but also allows us to learn from other countries and align with global standards in combating crime and terrorism,” SSP Ahumuza stated.
EAPCCO, which consists of 14 member states, plays a crucial role in fostering regional security and cooperation in Eastern Africa.
The annual SWAT Challenge is an integral part of its broader efforts to address transnational crime, improve law enforcement standards, and ensure the safety and security of citizens in the region.
The 2025 Rwanda SWAT Challenge is also a platform for innovation, allowing teams to exchange insights on modern policing tools, techniques, and strategies.
Beyond the competition, participants and observers are engaging in workshops and discussions to strengthen regional police cooperation.
As the event unfolds, the Uganda Police Force aims to not only compete but also contribute to the spirit of unity and collaboration that underpins the EAPCCO mission.
The outcome of the challenge will be announced at the closing ceremony on January 30, with the top-performing team earning regional recognition for their tactical excellence.
