CDF EMPHASIZES TRANSPARENCY IN KDF RECRUITMENT EXERCISE 

The Chief of the Defence Forces (CDF) General Charles Kahariri has today urged recruitment officers to uphold integrity, transparency, and professionalism as the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) embarks on its nationwide recruitment exercise.

Speaking during a briefing session at Defence Headquarters, Nairobi, General Kahariri reminded officers that the trust and confidence of Kenyans in the military depend on a fair and merit-based process.

General Kahariri noted that the Kenya Defence Forces has incorporated technology in the process to further enhance verification of applicants and eliminate opportunity for mal- practice. He warned that any officer found engaging in activities that disparages the conduct of the exercise of an immediate and severe disciplinary action. He opined that corruption undermines national security by compromising the quality of personnel joining the Force.

“The reputation of the KDF has been built over decades of discipline and service to the nation,” said General Kahariri. “This exercise must reflect our core values of integrity, patriotism, and excellence. Technology is now at the heart of our recruitment process, and it is our duty to ensure it is used effectively to eliminate human interference and corruption.”

General Kahariri concluded by reminding officers that the public is watching and expects the KDF to remain a symbol of integrity and national unity.

Commander Kenya Army, Lieutenant General David Ketter echoed the CDF’s sentiments, stressing the critical role of recruitment officers as the first link between the KDF and the public. He urged recruiting officers to ensure successful candidates are selected purely on merit.

Assistant Chief of Defence Forces in charge of Personnel and Logistics Major General Edward Rugendo highlighted that digital data management systems would be used to record recruitment progress in real time thus, guaranteeing fairness across all stations.

The upcoming recruitment exercise, scheduled to take place across all counties on 13th to 25th October 2025.