More disqualified as Army recruitment tightens rules at Nhlambeni
The people who were disqualified in the Army recruitment drive at Nhlambeni Inkhundla standing outside the gate.
By Thokozani Mazibuko
The Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF) recruitment exercise at Nhlambeni Constituency has once again underscored the strict vetting standards applied by the army, as the number of disqualified candidates far outweighed those who successfully qualified to take part in the recruitment race.
According to army officials on the ground, the majority of those turned away were not genuine residents of Nhlambeni Constituency, a requirement outlined in the recruitment guidelines.
The exercise, which took place on Monday, required all aspiring recruits to present their National Identity documents, a move that made verification swift and efficient.
“The rules are clear; this stage of recruitment is strictly reserved for candidates originating from Nhlambeni who are below the age of 35. Unfortunately, most of those who were disqualified failed this primary requirement,” explained one official.
Despite the large turnout, the strict vetting meant that only a limited number of hopefuls proceeded to the physical recruitment race on Tuesday.
Those who made the cut were the few who satisfied the residency and age requirements, reflecting the army’s zero-tolerance stance on attempts to bypass procedures.
Observers noted that the disqualifications did not dampen the spirit of the event, as the atmosphere remained charged with excitement and anticipation.
The UEDF has made it clear that every constituency will have its turn, ensuring fairness and inclusivity for young people across the Kingdom.
The Nhlambeni recruitment is part of the ongoing national exercise aimed at giving young Emaswati the chance to serve their country while promoting discipline, patriotism, and community representation within the army ranks.
Army Commander General Masotja Dlamini has previously stressed that the recruitment process is designed not only to identify the fittest and most capable candidates but also to ensure that representation reflects all corners of Eswatini.
With the exercise continuing across constituencies, the UEDF has urged young people to prepare adequately and to observe honesty in the process. For many, the recruitment drive represents not just an opportunity for employment but a chance to proudly serve their nation.
