UPDF announces 2026 recruitment drive

5 June 2026, 7:54 pm

By Ronald Ssemagonja

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has announced a nationwide recruitment exercise, calling upon qualified Ugandan citizens to apply for various positions in the Army across both general and professional categories.

Speaking to journalists at the Uganda Media Centre in Kampala, the Acting UPDF Spokesperson, Col. Chris Magezi, said the recruitment exercise will run from 10th to 24th June 2026 and is free of charge. He also warned applicants against submitting forged academic documents, noting that offenders will be dealt with according to the law.

Col. Magezi outlined the following requirements for applicants. Applicants must be Ugandan citizens aged 18–35 years for both regular and professional recruits. They must hold a Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) obtained in 2024 or 2025 with good passes. For UACE holders, Arts students must have a minimum of 10 points with at least two principal passes, while Science students must have a minimum of 8 points with at least two principal passes.

He added that applicants must present recommendation letters from Local Council I, II, and III chairpersons, as well as from the GISO or ISO in their area. Applicants must also have a clean record with no criminal background. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted after the selection process.

The UPDF also invited applications from professionals in fields such as practicing lawyers with at least five years of experience, qualified secondary school teachers with experience, ICT specialists, aviation professionals, and other technical fields. Women are strongly encouraged to apply, provided they meet the required qualifications.

The entire recruitment process is expected to be concluded by 30th August 2026.