MOMBASA, Kenya — The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has praised the ongoing nationwide recruitment exercise for general duty recruits and defence forces constables, citing strong turnout, professionalism, and transparency across the country.
Vice Chief of the Defence Forces Lieutenant General John Omenda made the remarks on Friday while inspecting recruitment centres in the coastal region as part of a nationwide assessment tour.
The exercise, which began on October 13, concludes on Saturday, October 25.
Lt Gen Omenda toured the Likoni and Kilifi recruitment centres, supervised by Lieutenant Colonel Hesbon Mugane and Lieutenant Colonel Alice Ngure, respectively.
He expressed satisfaction with the exercise’s overall conduct, applauding both the candidates’ discipline and the cooperation from local leaders and residents.
“We are impressed by the turnout and the discipline demonstrated by our young men and women. The cooperation from local leaders and residents has been exemplary,” said Lt Gen Omenda.
He commended recruitment officers for upholding integrity, professionalism, and transparency, noting that such conduct has strengthened public confidence in the process.
While acknowledging minor logistical challenges due to large crowds in some regions, the VCDF said officers had efficiently managed the situations to ensure fairness and order.
Lt Gen Omenda reiterated the KDF’s zero-tolerance policy on corruption, warning the public against paying bribes to secure recruitment slots. He emphasized that the process remains free, fair, and merit-based, supported by strict oversight and multi-agency supervision.
“Our recruitment is not for sale. We have put in place robust mechanisms to ensure that only qualified and deserving Kenyans are selected,” he stated.
He also revealed that shortlisting for general service officer cadets, specialist officers, and tradesmen and women had been completed, with successful candidates to be notified ahead of interviews scheduled for November.
Once the current phase concludes, successful recruits will proceed to medical screening and vetting before joining KDF training institutions for professional and character development.
Lt Gen Omenda reaffirmed the Defence Forces’ commitment to high recruitment standards, saying the exercise reflects KDF’s continued mission to build a competent, diverse, and service-driven military that represents the spirit of Kenya.
