UPDF has announced a drive in which the army seeks to recruit about 600 Local Defence unit Personnel (LDP) across six districts in Western Uganda, beginning on 10 November 2025.
According to Maj. Gen. Felix Kulayigye, the Director of Defence Public Information, the exercise will take place in Kamwenge, Kabarole, Bunyangabo, Kasese, Bundibugyo, and Ntoroko, with each district allocated 100 positions.
The announcement comes in the wake of last week’s machete attacks in parts of the Rwenzori sub-region, which left several people dead and others injured.
The attacks, carried out by unidentified assailants armed with machetes on security installations, sparked fear among residents and prompted heightened security operations.
At least 20 of the attackers were put out of action.
In response, the UPDF has intensified patrols and community security engagements to restore calm and reassure residents of government protection.
Maj. Gen. Kulayigye said the recruitment aims to strengthen local security and enhance the UPDF’s capacity to respond swiftly to emerging threats within communities.
“The UPDF leadership calls upon all eligible candidates to take advantage of this opportunity to serve in the UPDF and wishes those who will succeed in this exercise good luck in their military careers, where patriotism, nationalism, and Pan-Africanism are the basis of our service to all,” he said in a statement.
Applicants must be Ugandan citizens in possession of valid National Identity Cards (NIN), healthy and physically fit to undergo medical and fitness assessments.
Eligible candidates should be aged between 18 and 25 years and hold at least a UCE (O-Level) qualification or its equivalent.
Each applicant is required to submit a handwritten application letter endorsed by LCI, LCII, LCIII Chairpersons, and the GISO or DISO. Candidates must be residents of the respective districts, disciplined, and without any criminal record. Kulayigye warned that forged documents will lead to criminal prosecution.
The recruitment will be conducted according to the following schedule: on 10 November 2025 in Kabarole District at Boma Grounds; 11, November in Kamwenge District at the District Headquarters; 12, November in Bunyangabo District at the District Headquarters; 13 November in Kasese District at the District Headquarters; 14 November in Bundibugyo District at the District Headquarters; and 15, November in Ntoroko District at the District Headquarters.
Each district will recruit 100 Local Defence Personnel.
Applicants are expected to report individually at their respective recruitment centres with all required documents for physical and medical interviews.
Successful candidates will later be transported to the UPDF training school for formal training.
Maj. Gen. Kulayigye emphasized that this recruitment exercise not only offers young Ugandans a chance to serve their nation but also to build stable and honourable military careers at a time when the need for community security and vigilance is paramount.
