The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has released the list of successful applicants shortlisted for the 2026 nationwide general recruitment exercise, paving the way for the next phase of the enlistment process.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Acting Director of Defence Public Information, Col. Chris Magezi, announced that the names of successful candidates have been published on the official UPDF website and displayed at all city and district headquarters across the country.
He urged applicants to check the lists and confirm whether they have been shortlisted.
“We congratulate all successful applicants and encourage those who were not shortlisted to continue preparing for future opportunities to serve the nation. Their willingness to join the UPDF demonstrates patriotism and discipline, values that the force highly cherishes,” Col. Magezi said.
Shortlisted candidates will now proceed to Phase Three, the physical recruitment exercise, which is expected to begin soon in their respective cities and districts.
The UPDF has advised all shortlisted applicants to prepare the necessary documents before reporting. These include a handwritten application letter endorsed by Local Council I, II and III chairpersons, as well as the Gombolola Internal Security Officer (GISO) or District Internal Security Officer (DISO), the original National Identity Card or National Identification Number (NIN), original and certified copies of academic documents, and three coloured passport-size photographs.
Col. Magezi emphasized that all academic documents must be properly certified before presentation.
He added that the specific dates and schedules for the physical recruitment exercise will be communicated through official UPDF communication channels.
The UPDF also reminded the public that recruitment into the force is completely free of charge, warning applicants against fraudsters posing as recruitment agents.
“There are no agents or intermediaries involved in the recruitment process. Any cases of fraud or solicitation of money should be reported immediately to the nearest police station, the DISO’s office, or the nearest UPDF unit,” Magezi warned.
The shortlist follows the UPDF’s nationwide recruitment campaign launched last month to recruit 10,200 personnel from all districts across Uganda.
The exercise targets both ordinary recruits with Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) and Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) qualifications, particularly candidates with science backgrounds, as well as professionals in fields including education, medicine, engineering, law, aviation and music.
FULL LIST: UPDF Releases Shortlisted Candidates for 2026 Recruitment Exercise
