Newly enlisted Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) personnel in the Karamoja Sub-region have been urged to uphold discipline, patriotism, and healthy lifestyles as they prepare to begin training. The call came as the army concluded a ten-day recruitment exercise across seven districts.
At various recruitment centres, District Resident Commissioners (RDCs), LC V chairpersons, and municipal mayors encouraged the successful applicants to remain committed to national service. “I urge you to uphold discipline as the foundation of your success,” said Kotido RDC, Mr Icogor Charles.
In Amudat, RDC Mr Okori Denis advised recruits to safeguard their health and steer clear of alcohol, smoking, and promiscuity, warning that such habits could undermine their future. “Ensure that you are healthy to avoid becoming a liability to yourself and the government,” he said.
Moroto Municipality Mayor, Hon Ismail Mohammed, urged the recruits to embody patriotic values and to represent their districts with pride during and after training.
Recognising the unique challenges in Karamoja, local leaders appealed for some applicants to be considered under affirmative action, a request that was granted, resulting in their enlistment.
The leaders also advised young people to prioritise education, keep their original academic documents, and present them when required to avoid missing out on both government and private sector opportunities. They expressed appreciation to the UPDF leadership for providing avenues for educated and able-bodied youth to join the army.
Colonel Santurino Mashereka Tumuranzye, head of UPDF Recruitment Team Seven for the Karamoja and Sebei sub-regions, announced that 185 recruits, including 12 females, had been selected from the nine districts of Karamoja. He cautioned them against engaging in risky behaviour that could prevent them from reporting for training and urged them to arrive promptly at the Basic Recruits Training School in Kaweweta, Nakaseke District.
The recruitment team reported that some applicants were turned away for failing to present original academic documents, lacking national identity cards, or having mismatched personal details.
Col Tumuranzye thanked parents and district officials for their mobilisation efforts and cooperation during the exercise. Recruitment Team Seven will now proceed to Kapchorwa District to conduct the Sebei Sub-region recruitment from 11 to 14 August 2025
