VCDF TOURS KIKUYU CENTRE AS NATIONWIDE KDF RECRUITMENT FOR GENERAL DUTY RECRUITS CONCLUDES

The nationwide Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) recruitment exercise officially concluded today, 25th October 2025, with the Vice Chief of the Defence Forces (VCDF), Lieutenant General John Omenda, touring the Kikuyu Recruitment Centre in Kiambu County.

Lt Gen Omenda, who was received by the Senior Recruiting Officer (SRO), Lieutenant Colonel David Awuonda, expressed satisfaction with the smooth and transparent conduct of the recruitment exercise across the country.

“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 said, reaffirming the institution’s commitment to integrity and professionalism in its recruitment process.

The VCDF noted that with the conclusion of the General Duty Recruits intake, the next phase—recruitment of General Service Officer (GSO) Cadets, Specialist Officers, and Tradesmen/Women—is set to begin in November 2025.

Shortlisting for these categories has already been completed, and successful candidates have been notified to report to various centres for interviews and processing starting 3rd November 2025.

Lt Gen Omenda explained that GSO Cadets will undergo three years of intensive training at the Kenya Military Academy (KMA), leading to a Bachelor’s Degree in Military Science and Security Studies. Graduate Cadets, who already possess specialized academic qualifications, will train for one year, while Specialist Cadets—including doctors, lawyers, engineers, and chaplains—will undertake training lasting not more than nine months.

He further clarified that successful General Duty Recruits and Tradesmen/Women will report to the Defence Forces Recruit Training School (DFRTS) in Eldoret for basic military training.

Speaking at the Kikuyu Recruitment Centre, Lt Col Awuonda congratulated the successful candidates and officially welcomed them to the Kenya Defence Forces.

“I would like to congratulate those selected and welcome them into the service. Their journey of commitment and patriotism begins now,” she said.

Lt Gen Omenda later addressed the recruits, urging them—if successful—to remain disciplined and dedicated as they embark on their military careers.

“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,” he advised.