The Chief of the Defence Forces (CDF), General Charles Kahariri, has presided over the groundbreaking ceremony for the new Defence Forces Welfare Services (DEFWES) Mall at Moi Barracks, Eldoret.
In a statement shared on its official X account on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) announced that the mall will feature supermarkets, restaurants, and fueling stations. The project aims to enhance the welfare and living standards of KDF personnel, veterans, and their families stationed within the Eldoret region.
According to KDF, the DEFWES Mall represents a key milestone in its ongoing efforts to improve the social, economic, and cultural well-being of service members through affordable and sustainable initiatives.
“DEFWES remains a key player in promoting the social, economic, and cultural well-being of service members through various cost-friendly initiatives, including the establishment of supermarkets, restaurants, and fueling stations,” the KDF statement read.
During the event, General Kahariri also commissioned the newly renovated Corporals’ Club, reinforcing KDF’s commitment to improving recreational and welfare facilities for its troops.
The ceremony coincided with the 14th KDF Day celebrations, held at Moi Barracks, Eldoret, and led by President William Ruto. KDF Day, first observed on October 14, 2012, commemorates the launch of Operation Linda Nchi in 2011 — a military campaign in Somalia. The day honors the bravery, service, and sacrifice of Kenyan soldiers, both active and fallen.
Meanwhile, as the celebrations continue, KDF has officially kicked off its 2025 recruitment exercise, which began on Monday, October 13. The drive offers opportunities across the Army, Air Force, and Navy, targeting both general duty recruits and specialist officers.
KDF has pledged to uphold integrity during the process, vowing to eliminate all forms of corruption and ensure transparency in the recruitment exercise.
