UPDF Recruitment 2025 Kicks Off in Kigezi Region – Over 1,400 Recruits Targeted in Western Uganda
- Afri Careers
- Aug 6
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 6
The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Recruitment exercise for 2025 has officially commenced in the Kigezi Region, with a goal of enlisting 1,447 new recruits from across Western Uganda. The exercise began on Tuesday at Kabale Main Stadium and will run for three days, covering the districts of Kabale, Rubanda, Rukiga, and Kisoro.
According to Major Kiconco Tabaro, the Public Information Officer for the 2nd Infantry Division, all successful applicants in the UPDF Recruitment exercise must report to Kaweweta Training School in Nakaseke District within three days of completing their assessments.
The UPDF Recruitment exercise aims to enlist 1,447 disciplined and patriotic young men and women from Western Uganda. Only those who pass both the physical and medical tests will proceed to Kaweweta for training,” said Major Tabaro.
Speaking at the launch of the UPDF Recruitment drive, Kabale Resident District Commissioner Major Godfrey Katamba warned applicants that discipline is a core value that starts at the recruitment stage.
“If you cut corners during drills, you’ll be disqualified. Indiscipline at any stage—during training or after passing out—will lead to dismissal in disgrace,” Katamba emphasized.
Kabale District Chairperson Nelson Nshangabasheija echoed these sentiments, encouraging candidates to maintain patriotism, honesty, and integrity throughout the UPDF Recruitment process, noting that UPDF’s reputation for professionalism is recognized across Africa.
Despite the excitement, the UPDF Recruitment exercise hasn’t been without controversy. Several applicants from Rukiga District expressed concerns about irregularities in the shortlisting process. Candidates like Joseph Katongore, Bless Arinanye, and Albert Ndyamuhakyi pointed out issues like repeated names and unexplained omissions.
In response, Major Tabaro clarified that some applicants did not meet the eligibility criteria or submitted late applications. He advised those under the minimum age of 22 to try again in future UPDF Recruitment cycles and reminded others that there are still many alternative career paths.
Colonel James Kasule, the 2nd Deputy Division Commander, reiterated that the UPDF Recruitment exercise is strictly for Ugandan citizens.
“Even though Kabale is near international borders, we are only recruiting Ugandans. No Rwandans or Congolese will be enlisted. However, Ugandan applicants from regions like Karamoja who were shortlisted in Kabale are welcome,” he stated.
The 2025 UPDF Recruitment exercise demonstrates the force’s commitment to building a disciplined, inclusive, and professional army. By recruiting across Uganda’s diverse regions, the UPDF continues to promote national unity, regional balance, and merit-based service.
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