By Our Reporter
The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has launched a nationwide recruitment exercise to enlist 11,545 Ugandans into the armed forces. The recruitment, scheduled to run from Monday, July 7 to Friday, July 11, 2025, aims to strengthen the UPDF’s capacity while offering disciplined and qualified citizens an opportunity to serve their country.
Addressing the press in Kampala, UPDF spokesperson Major General Felix Kulayigye emphasized that the recruitment process is entirely free of charge and cautioned the public against fraudsters posing as recruitment agents. He noted that scammers are recycling last year’s recruitment videos to mislead applicants, and urged all candidates to verify information only through official UPDF channels.
“To avoid confusion, I wore a different uniform this year. We advise the public to ignore unofficial messages and to rely solely on our verified communication platforms,” said Maj. Gen. Kulayigye.
Online Application Process
All applications must be submitted online via recruitment.updf.go.ug before the deadline. Applicants are required to upload:
- A recent passport-size photograph,
- Academic transcripts,
- A copy of their National Identification Card.
After the online application phase, a list of shortlisted candidates will be published on the UPDF website and displayed on public notice boards. These candidates will then be invited for physical verification at designated centers across all 135 districts and 11 cities in Uganda. The dates for physical verification will be communicated at a later stage.
Eligibility Criteria
The recruitment is open to both A-Level leavers and professionals, with specific requirements as follows:
- Senior Six leavers (science combinations) must have at least 12 points and be aged 18–23 years.
- UACE certificate holders must have a minimum of two principal passes totaling eight points.
- Professionals in various fields such as IT, computer science, software engineering, and others can apply up to the age of 30, depending on their area of specialization.
The UPDF is also conducting centralized recruitment for Air Force candidates and Grade Five teachers at Kololo Airstrip in Kampala.
All applicants must be:
- Physically and mentally fit,
- Without a criminal record.
In addition to the online application, candidates are required to submit a handwritten application letter endorsed by the Local Council I (LC I), LC II, LC III, and the GISO or DISO. They must also present original and photocopies of all relevant documents at the time of physical verification. Originals will be returned after the verification process.
Maj. Gen. Kulayigye reiterated the UPDF’s strict policy against corruption during recruitment.
“Recruitment into the UPDF is absolutely free. No one should ask for or offer money. Anyone claiming to sell recruitment slots is a fraudster and must be reported to the nearest police station,” he stated.
He added that recruitment quotas are allocated based on national population data to ensure regional equity and transparency.
The UPDF is encouraging more women, particularly those with professional qualifications, to apply. Maj. Gen. Kulayigye noted that this recruitment presents a unique opportunity for young Ugandans to build meaningful careers in national service.
“Your country needs you — your strength, your skills, and your heart. But not your money,” he affirmed.
This latest UPDF recruitment drive is part of a broader effort to reinforce Uganda’s defence forces with skilled, disciplined, and patriotic citizens. The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious recruitment activities. For official updates and announcements, applicants are advised to monitor the UPDF’s website and verified media platforms.