The role of the Uganda People’s Defence Force Reserve Forces in guaranteeing national security

Abstract

This research paper examines the role of the Uganda People's Defence Force (UPDF) Reserve Force in sustaining national security within Uganda. It defines the key concepts of security, national security, reserve forces, and explores how a well-structured military organization addresses both internal and external threats. The research presents historical accounts of military organization in Uganda, how reserve forces evolved over the decades, and its contemporary forms, in comparison to the global best practices. The study determine that reserve forces contribute significantly to national security in Uganda, especially in the disaster response, border security, and civil-military arenas. The research identifies common challenges of reserve forces, including recruitment, training and integration with active forces. The research also makes recommendations to improve the functionality of the UPDF Reserve Forces, including improved training, resources and community support. Ultimately, the study concludes that the existence of reserve forces is essential to ensuring Uganda's national security given the constant change in contemporary security threats.

Keywords: Uganda People’s Defence Force Reserve Forces, National security