The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has announced its nationwide recruitment exercise for October 2025. The drive will give Kenyans a chance to join the military in different categories.
The openings include:
- General Service Officer (GSO) Cadets
- Specialist Officers
- Tradesmen and Tradeswomen
- Other professional roles in Education, ICT, Engineering, Legal, Mass Communication, and Supply Chain Management
KDF said the exercise will be conducted countrywide. It described the opportunity as a way to serve the nation while gaining professional and technical skills.
Requirements for GSO Cadets
- Graduate Cadets: Applicants must have a KCSE mean grade of B (Plain) with C+ (Plus) in English, Mathematics, and a Science subject. A Bachelor’s degree is also required. Training lasts 15 months.
- Regular Cadets: Same KCSE requirements apply. Training takes three years and leads to a BSc in Defence and Security Studies.
Requirements for Specialist Officers
Applicants must have a KCSE mean grade of B (Plain) with C+ (Plus) in English, Mathematics, and a Science subject. They must also hold a degree in a relevant field and be registered with the relevant professional body.
- Chaplains/Imams: Minimum KCSE mean grade of C+ (Plus) is accepted.
- Training duration: Six months.
Requirements for Tradesmen and Women
There are two categories:
- Craft/Certificate Holders – KCSE mean grade of D+ (Plus) plus a relevant Certificate with Government Trade Test Grade II or Craft II.
- Diploma Holders – KCSE mean grade of C (Plain) plus a Diploma or higher from a recognized institution. Registration with statutory bodies is required where applicable.
Application Advice
KDF advised applicants to confirm they meet all academic, physical, and professional requirements before applying. The recruitment centers and dates will be communicated officially.
