KDF explains intensive training awaiting each group after recruitment
As the nationwide Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) recruitment exercise officially comes to a close, the Vice Chief of the Defence Forces (VCDF), Lieutenant General John Omenda, has broken down the pieces of training awaiting each group.
Speaking on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at the Kikuyu Recruitment Centre in Kiambu County, Omenga lauded the military officials, maintaining that the recruitment exercise was free and fair.
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“We have witnessed a good turnout and a credible exercise. KDF remains a free and fair force that provides equal opportunities for young men and women to serve their nation,” he stated.
Training
With the recruitment of the General Duty Recruits ending, Omenga explained that the next phase will target General Service Officer (GSO) Cadets, Specialist Officers, and Tradesmen/Women.
The exercise is scheduled to commence on November 3, 2025. Shortlisting for these categories has already been completed, and successful candidates have been notified to report to various centres for interviews and processing.
GSO Cadets
GSO Cadets are expected to undergo a three-year intensive training at the Kenya Military Academy (KMA), leading to a Bachelor’s Degree in Military Science and Security Studies.
Graduate Cadets
Graduate Cadets are those seeking to join the army while possessing specialised academic qualifications.
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According to Omenga, that category will train for one year, while Specialist Cadets—including doctors, lawyers, engineers, and chaplains—will undertake training lasting not more than nine months.
General recruitments
On the other hand, General Duty Recruits and Tradesmen/Women will report to the Defence Forces Recruit Training School (DFRTS) in Eldoret for basic military training.
“Military work is not easy; it demands sacrifice, dedication, and perseverance. I urge you to stay true to the calling and serve the nation with pride,” Omenga advised the recruits ahead of the vigorous exercise.
Interviews
GSO Cadets (Regular) are expected to report to the Kenya Military Academy, Lanet, Nakuru, on Monday, December 1, 2025, at 6:00 a.m. GSO Cadets (Graduate) will report to the same location a week earlier, on Monday, November 24, 2025.
Specialist Officers are scheduled to attend interviews at the Kenya Military Academy on Monday, December 8, 2025, while tradesmen and tradeswomen will report to the Ulinzi Sports Complex, Lang’ata, Nairobi, on Monday, November 3, 2025, at 6:00 a.m.
All shortlisted candidates are required to carry their original National Identification Card (ID), academic and professional certificates, curriculum vitae, and any other relevant testimonials, together with four photocopies of each document.
