UPDF launches recruitment exercise in Karamoja

The Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) has commenced its recruitment exercise for Karamoja Sub-region, with shortlisted candidates from Kaabong and Karenga districts arriving to compete for positions in the force.

Colonel James Barigye Rukundo, team seven leader and the substantive Third Division Operation and Training Officer (3DOTO), told the aspiring recruits to always uphold discipline, follow instructions to the letter, and exercise patience throughout the interview process.

Col Rukundo assured both candidates and district leaders that "the interview stages would be conducted systematically and transparently to ensure the selection of high-quality soldiers."

He reiterated that the UPDF is committed to maintaining its standards and dignity.

Mr.Filbert Ocailap, the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) for Karenga, expressed his gratitude to the UPDF's strategic leadership for adopting a new approach to the recruitment process.

He noted that the shortlisting of candidates following official advertisements and quota projections provided clear guidance and encouraged the candidates to give their best during the interviews.

Meri Jino, the district chairperson for Kaabong, advocated for affirmative action to support candidates from the Karamoja Sub-region.

The recruitment team will spend two days at the Kaabong recruitment center, aiming to select 22 candidates from the 36 shortlisted in Kaabong and 12 from the 14 shortlisted in Karenga.

Following the Kaabong phase, the team will move to the Kotido centre  to interview candidates from Kotido District on July 3, and from Abim District on July 4.

The UPDF's recruitment initiative underscores its commitment to inclusivity and systematic selection processes, ensuring that the best candidates are chosen to join Uganda's defense forces.