Team Six Commanded by Col. Gai Impresses in Dokolo as 162 Youth Join UPDF.
By Okidi Patrick Ocamoyitdyel
Dokolo, Uganda: UPDF Recruitment Team Six commanded by Col. Gai Fraser Mpadwa has been lauded for conducting a transparent and merit-based recruitment exercise in Dokolo, where 162 young men and women were successfully recruited after a two-day exercise.
The exercise, held from August 18-19, 2026, covered four districts of Dokolo, Amolatar, Kaberamaido and Kalaki. The team led by Col. Mpadwa and deputised by Maj. Miriam Apio is in charge of recruitment in Northern Uganda.
According to official figures from the team, Dokolo District led with 55 recruits, followed by Kalaki with 38, Amolatar 36, and Kaberamaido 33.
Col. Gai said the recruitment involved vigorous physical and medical assessments to ensure only candidates who meet UPDF standards are selected.
“During the physical assessment, four candidates collapsed after a 4km run and were rushed to Dokolo Health Centre by ambulance. They were disqualified on grounds of unfitness,” he said.
He added that a number of other candidates were eliminated during medical examination after failing to meet required standards.
The exercise was, however, not without drama. Atim Prisca, a female youth from Dokolo District who had been disqualified on medical grounds, allegedly attempted to bribe a member of Team Six to secure placement. She was arrested and handed over to Dokolo Police for further action.
Despite the incidents, Col. Gai said the exercise progressed well and achieved its objectives.
He commended local leaders and communities of the four districts for their cooperation and facilitation, which he said enabled the team to conduct an orderly and credible exercise.
The team has concluded activities in Dokolo cluster and is now in Apac District, where the same commitment to selecting suitable and qualified young men and women for service in the UPDF continues.
According to Col Gai, the successful completion of the exercise in the four districts, demonstrates the importance of cooperation between the UPDF, local leaders and the population in ensuring transparency.
About the Author
