The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has announced its nationwide recruitment exercise for October 2025, open from 13th to 25th October, with vacancies for GSO Cadets, Specialist Officers, Tradesmen/women, and Defence Forces Constables.
This year’s recruitment drive is described by KDF as “a unique opportunity to serve your country in a vital, supportive capacity.”
The exercise is open to applicants across the country, with a focus on not only general military roles but also specialised professions such as Education, Engineering, ICT, Mass Communication, Legal, and Supply Chain Management.
Applicants for the GSO Graduate Cadet post must hold a Bachelor’s degree from a recognised university, alongside a minimum mean grade of B (Plain) in KCSE with C+ (Plus) in English, Mathematics, and one Science subject.
This category requires a 15-month training period. Meanwhile, regular GSO Cadets are expected to meet similar academic standards but will undergo a three-year training programme, culminating in a BSc degree in Defence and Security Studies.
For Specialist Officers, the qualifications include a Bachelor’s degree and registration with the relevant regulatory body, where applicable. These officers will undergo a six-month training period. Notably, chaplains and imams must be under 39 years of age and hold a minimum C+ in KCSE.
- Kenya Defence Forces salaries and ranking
- Requirements to join NIS with certificate, diploma or degree
In addition, the recruitment drive targets skilled Tradesmen and women under two categories. Those applying with a Craft or Certificate must have at least a D+ in KCSE, coupled with a Government Trade Test Grade II or Craft II certificate. Diploma holders must have a minimum grade of C (Plain) in KCSE, along with the relevant diploma and registration with statutory bodies if necessary.
Physical standards remain stringent. Men must be at least 1.60m tall and weigh at least 54.55kg, while women must be at least 1.52m tall and weigh 50kg or more.
Applicants must have a clean criminal record, and women should not be pregnant during recruitment or training. Tattoos and dental health will also be checked as part of the selection.
The KDF has issued a clear warning against any form of corruption or misconduct during the recruitment process, stating that “misconduct such as bribery or any form of corruption is discouraged as it will attract the arrest and prosecution of those involved.”
Applicants are required to apply exclusively online at https://recruit.mod.go.ke before the deadline of 12th October 2025, and must submit their original and four copies of national ID, KRA PIN certificate, and academic certificates.
– Additional reporting by Timon Otieno
Email your news TIPS to Editor@nairobilawmonthly.com, and to advertise with us, call +254715061658 anytime of the day
