The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has announced a massive recruitment drive, seeking to enlist 9,627 new soldiers into its ranks.
This was revealed by Brig Gen Alex Olupot, the head of joint staff training and doctrine, during at a press conference today.
“We are looking for eligible citizens to join our forces and serve our country,” Brig Gen Olupot said. “We encourage all qualified individuals to apply and be part of our team.”
To be eligible, applicants must be Ugandan citizens who sat O-Level between 2000 and 2023 and have passed English and Mathematics at the same level. The age requirement is strictly between 18 to 22 years old.
“We want to ensure that our new recruits are well-educated and have a strong foundation in key subjects,” Brig Gen Olupot explained. “This will help them to excel in their military careers.”
The application period will start on May 27 and close on June 2, with interviews scheduled to take place from July 1 to July 14. The exercise will be conducted in all 135 districts and 11 cities across the country.
According to UPDF Spokes Person, Brig. Felix Kulayigye, “individuals with criminal records will not be admitted into the army,” as the UPDF seeks to maintain its high standards and integrity.
“We have a zero-tolerance policy for criminal behavior,” Brig Gen. Felix Kulayigye emphasized. “We want our soldiers to be role models and uphold the highest values of discipline and professionalism.”
This recruitment drive is part of the UPDF’s efforts to strengthen its capacity and capabilities, as it continues to play a vital role in maintaining peace and security in Uganda and the region.
UPDF’s last recruitment exercise was in January 2022. The countrywide exercise which started on December 27, 2019 and ended on January 5, 2020 saw 4,000 more soldiers recruited.
Uganda’s military is composed of the Uganda People’s Defense Force (UPDF), which includes the army, air force, and navy. As of 2021, the estimated size of the UPDF was around 45,000 active personnel, with an additional 35,000 reserves.
