The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Charles Kahariri, has issued a stern warning to recruitment officers ahead of the upcoming Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) recruitment exercise, emphasizing the need for integrity, transparency, and professionalism throughout the process.
Speaking on Thursday, October 9, during a briefing at the Defence Headquarters in Nairobi, General Kahariri reminded officers that the trust and confidence Kenyans have in the military are built on the principles of fairness and merit. He warned that any officer found engaging in corruption or malpractice would face immediate and severe disciplinary action.
“Any activity that undermines the integrity of this exercise will not be tolerated,” Kahariri stated. “The reputation of the KDF has been built over decades of discipline and service to the nation. This recruitment must reflect our core values of integrity, patriotism, and excellence.”
To curb corruption and enhance transparency, the military has integrated technology-based systems into the recruitment process. According to the CDF, digital verification tools will be used to authenticate applicants’ information and eliminate human interference.
His sentiments were echoed by Lieutenant General David Ketter, Commander of the Kenya Army, who underscored the vital role of recruitment officers as the first link between the military and the public. He called for merit-based selection to ensure that only the most qualified and disciplined candidates join the ranks.
On his part, Major General Edward Rugendo, Assistant Chief of Defence Forces in charge of Personnel and Logistics, revealed that a digital data management system will record recruitment progress in real time, ensuring accountability across all stations.
The recruitment exercise will run from October 13 to October 25, 2025, across all counties. Applicants must be Kenyan citizens with a valid national ID, KRA PIN, and academic certificates. Cadet and general duty officer applicants must be aged between 18 and 28, while constable applicants should be between 30 and 55 years old.
General Kahariri reaffirmed that the KDF remains committed to upholding professionalism and ensuring that every recruit reflects the values and discipline that define Kenya’s military legacy.
