Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF) has confirmed that the newly recruited intake will commence formal training at the Mbuluzi Army Barracks in January and February 2026.
This was announced by the UEDF Commander, Lieutenant General Moses Mashikilisane Fakudze, who stated that all instructors are already fully prepared to welcome and train the new recruits.
General Fakudze made the announcement on on Thursday, 27 November 2025 during the ongoing UEDF recruitment exercise at Lobamba Lomdzala Inkhundla, following an earlier session at Lobamba Inkhundla. He expressed sincere appreciation to all involved in ensuring that the nationwide recruitment exercise was conducted smoothly, transparently, and with professionalism.
He extended his gratitude to the media for providing continuous coverage from the beginning of the process, saying their presence had helped maintain public trust and kept the nation informed at every stage. The Commander also thanked community elders, Bucopho, and Tindvuna for verifying that all applicants belonged to the correct communities and Inkhundla centres, a key step in maintaining the integrity of the recruitment process.
General Fakudze went on to commend the entire recruitment team, led by Brigadier General Thabo Luhlanga, for their discipline, hard work, and unwavering commitment. He noted that their dedication had ensured that the process was both thorough and credible. “Their work was so meticulous that I can stand here and confirm that the army recruitment exercise has gone very well,” he said.
He further expressed gratitude to His Majesty King Mswati III, the Commander-in-Chief, for authorising this large-scale recruitment initiative, emphasising that the army remains committed to serving the nation with honour and loyalty.
With two recruitment centres remaining — Mbabane East and Mbabane West — General Fakudze said he did not foresee any challenges, given the efficiency and transparency demonstrated thus far. He congratulated all successful candidates from the various Inkhundla centres and urged them to take care of their health ahead of the second-stage medical fitness tests. These tests will run concurrently with the national Incwala Ceremony.
The Commander also encouraged those who were unsuccessful not to lose hope, advising them to try again during future recruitment cycles.
Speaking about the physical conditions that characterised the recruitment exercises, Brigadier General Thabo Luhlanga highlighted that both the extreme heat and periods of heavy rain had served as natural tests of endurance. He explained that the fitness assessments — including running and other physical challenges — were deliberately designed to identify candidates with discipline, resilience, and readiness for military service.
Meanwhile, General Fakudze issued a stern warning against bribery, urging the public not to attempt corrupt practices in hopes of securing a place in the army. “No one must call asking for gaps to be filled or wait at the gates with bribes. Recruitment has been completed at the Tinkhundla centres,” he stated firmly.
With training staff already on standby at Mbuluzi Army Barracks, the UEDF leadership says it stands ready to transform the new intake into disciplined, skilled, and patriotic soldiers dedicated to safeguarding the nation.
For More News And Analysis About Eswatini Follow Africa-Press
