KDF Releases Shortlist for 2025 Recruitment Interviews

The Kenya Defence Forces has released the shortlist of successful candidates for the 2025/2026 recruitment exercise, marking a major milestone in one of the most competitive military intakes in the country’s history.

The announcement, issued by the Ministry of Defence on Saturday, October 25, 2025, confirmed that interviews will begin in early November for various categories, including General Service Officer Cadets, Specialist Officers, and Tradesmen and Tradeswomen.

“The Kenya Defence Forces is pleased to announce the shortlisted candidates for the vacancies of GSO Cadets, both Regular and Graduate, Specialist Officers, and Tradesmen or Women,” read part of the official statement issued by the Ministry.

According to the notice, General Service Officer Cadets under the Graduate category are expected to report to the Kenya Military Academy in Lanet, Nakuru, on Monday, November 24, 2025, at 6 a.m., while Regular Cadets will report to the same venue on Monday, December 1, 2025. Specialist Officers will have their interviews at the Kenya Military Academy on Monday, December 8, while Tradesmen and Tradeswomen will report to the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Lang’ata, Nairobi, on Monday, November 3, 2025, at 6 a.m.

All shortlisted candidates have been instructed to carry their original national identification cards, academic and professional certificates, curriculum vitae, and any other relevant documents, along with four photocopies of each.

KDF recruitment team conducts recruitment exercise in Habaswein, Wajir County

The KDF has assured that food and accommodation will be provided during the interview period, and that unsuccessful candidates will receive reimbursement for travel expenses in line with existing military regulations.

Candidates have also been advised to carry warm clothing due to expected cold weather conditions, particularly for those reporting to Nakuru. The Ministry of Defence has reiterated that the entire recruitment process is free of charge and strictly merit-based.

It has warned against any attempts to offer or accept bribes, stating that such acts constitute a criminal offence. Members of the public have been urged to report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station, military camp, or through the official hotlines 0726 419 706 and 0726 419 709.

The 2025 recruitment exercise began in September and attracted thousands of applicants from across the country. It covers multiple categories including General Service Officer Cadets, Specialist Officers, General Duty Recruits, Tradesmen and Women, and Defence Forces Constables. The application period closed on October 12, 2025, after which the shortlisting process was completed in the third week of the month.

The minimum academic requirement for Regular Cadets was a KCSE mean grade of B plain with at least a C+ in English, Mathematics and one Science subject, while Graduate Cadets were required to hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognised university.

Specialist Officers and Tradesmen were required to possess professional qualifications in their respective fields and be aged 30 years or below.

For many young Kenyans, making it to the shortlist represents a major step toward a military career that promises discipline, service, and stability. Those selected are expected to undergo rigorous vetting and physical assessment before proceeding to training in December.

The Defence Forces have in the past faced scrutiny over recruitment transparency, with allegations of corruption and favouritism.

However, the Ministry of Defence has this year intensified oversight, warning that any individual found engaging in bribery or fraudulent activity will face prosecution.

As interviews begin in November, all eyes are now on the Kenya Military Academy and the Ulinzi Sports Complex where thousands of hopefuls will compete for limited slots in the country’s most prestigious military institution.

For those who have been shortlisted, the journey to wearing the coveted uniform has officially begun, while those who missed out have been reminded that future recruitment opportunities remain open for those who meet the merit standards and demonstrate discipline, integrity, and readiness to serve Kenya.