The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has started the third phase of its 2026 recruitment exercise, with shortlisted candidates undergoing physical fitness tests and medical examinations across the country.
The exercise is also aimed at verifying candidates’ academic and personal documents as the force moves closer to selecting those who will join the military.
The candidates taking part in this phase were shortlisted following an online application process conducted earlier this year. They include applicants seeking to join both the regular forces and specialised professional units.
According to the UPDF, the recruitment drive is intended to strengthen the force’s operational capacity while filling critical positions in technical, medical, legal and administrative areas.
Unlike previous recruitment exercises that largely focused on ordinary military recruits, the 2026 intake also targets Ugandans with professional skills that can support different sections of the UPDF.
Professionals in fields including education, healthcare, aviation, engineering, law, sports and music are among those being considered for specialised positions.
The UPDF said the exercise also provides eligible Ugandans with an opportunity to pursue careers in the military while contributing their skills to national service.
Candidates taking part in the ongoing phase are drawn from districts across the country as the recruitment exercise continues nationwide.
