The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has officially launched a nationwide recruitment campaign aiming to enlist 11,545 new personnel. The exercise begins on July 7 and ends on July 11, 2025, with applications accepted exclusively online through the official UPDF portal.
Click here to join our WhatsApp Group and Receive Daily News
Speaking in Kampala, army spokesperson Maj. Gen. Felix Kulayigye cautioned Ugandans against falling victim to fraudsters circulating outdated videos and demanding bribes for recruitment slots. He emphasized that the UPDF recruitment process is completely free and that only information shared through official UPDF platforms is valid. To distinguish this year’s exercise from previous ones, Kulayigye even wore a different uniform in the announcement video.
Eligible applicants must meet a range of criteria, including academic qualifications, age limits, and physical and mental fitness. Senior Six leavers require at least 12 points in science combinations, while professional roles are open to candidates with qualifications in areas such as IT, engineering, and teaching, with age limits extending up to 30 years. Recruitment will also include physical verification in all districts and cities, with shortlisted candidates announced online and on local noticeboards.
Kulayigye reiterated that no payment is required at any stage of the process and urged citizens to report any individuals soliciting money. The recruitment drive, designed to reflect population distribution data from the Uganda Bureau of Statistics, aims to offer equal opportunity to all regions. Women, particularly those with professional qualifications, are strongly encouraged to apply.
Framed as both a career opportunity and a national duty, the UPDF’s recruitment drive invites Uganda’s youth to serve their country with discipline and pride—without ever paying a shilling.
Also Read: Amama Mbabazi’s Daughter Wanted Over Unpaid Shs 450m Loan
