The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has successfully recruited 62 applicants from the Sebei sub-region in eastern Uganda as part of a nationwide recruitment exercise. This process, aimed at bolstering the ranks of the UPDF, saw 22 recruits from Kapchorwa, 22 from Kween district, and 18 from Bukwo. Among the 62 successful recruits were 12 women.
Recruitment Details
Col. James Barigye Rukundo, who heads Team Seven for the Karamoja and Sebei regions, oversaw the recruitment at the Kapchorwa recruitment center. Despite the success, many shortlisted candidates faced disqualification due to medical issues, discrepancies in academic transcripts, and problems with their National Identity Cards.
Col. Rukundo stressed that the recruitment process was conducted fairly and based on merit. The target number of recruits was met, although seven applicants were arrested for presenting fake documents and are currently held at Kapchorwa Police Station for further investigation.
| District | Recruits | Female Recruits |
|---|---|---|
| Kapchorwa | 22 | – |
| Kween | 22 | – |
| Bukwo | 18 | – |
| Total | 62 | 12 |
The Resident District Commissioner for Kween, ASP (Rtd) Hope Atuhaire, along with the regional whip for the Sebei sub-region, urged the new recruits to remain committed and patriotic throughout their training and service to Uganda.
Hon. Chebet Evelyne, Kapchorwa District Chairperson, advised the recruits against desertion after joining the force. She also encouraged those who did not qualify not to lose hope, pointing out the numerous opportunities available in both the government and private sectors.
Future Recruitment Plans
The day-long recruitment exercise was attended by senior district officials from across the Sebei sub-region. The UPDF recruitment team is scheduled to continue similar exercises for shortlisted applicants from Sironko district at Sironko district headquarters on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, and for Bulambuli district on Wednesday, July 10, 2024, at the same venue.
This ongoing recruitment drive is part of the UPDF’s efforts to strengthen its forces by incorporating new, qualified, and dedicated personnel from various regions across Uganda.
