The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has announced plans to recruit new members in October 2025. The exercise will target General Service Officer (GSO) Cadets, Specialist Officers, General Duty Recruits, Tradesmen and Women, as well as Defence Forces Constables.
According to a notice issued by KDF, all applicants must be Kenyan citizens and holders of a valid National Identity Card. Candidates are also required to present their original documents alongside four copies each of their ID card, KRA PIN certificate, and academic certificates.
The age requirements are as follows: between 18 and 26 years for GSO Cadets and General Duty Recruits, not above 30 years for Specialist Officers and Tradesmen/Women, and not above 39 years for Chaplains and Imams. Applicants must also have no criminal record.
KDF has also set physical requirements for candidates. Men must be at least 1.60 metres tall and weigh no less than 54.55 kilograms, while women must be at least 1.52 metres tall and weigh at least 50 kilograms. The Body Mass Index (BMI) must be below 30, and female candidates must not be pregnant during recruitment or training.
“Candidates must be medically fit as per the KDF standards,” the notice reads.
For Specialist Officers and Tradesmen/Women, applicants must also have a minimum of two years’ work experience in their field of specialization from the date of registration with the relevant professional body in Kenya.
