KDF releases shortlist for cadets, announces recruitment interview dates
By Faith Lagat, October 25, 2025In a major update for Kenyans seeking to join the military, the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has released the shortlist of successful candidates for the 2025/2026 recruitment exercise.
The announcement, issued by the Ministry of Defence on Saturday, October 25, 2025, marks the next phase in the selection process for General Service Officer (GSO) Cadets, Specialist Officers, and Tradesmen and Tradeswomen.
“The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) is pleased to announce the shortlisted candidates for the vacancies of GSO Cadets (Regular and Graduate), Specialist Officers and Tradesmen/Women,” read the KDF notice.
Interview schedule and venues
According to the notice, interviews will take place at designated venues beginning in early November. GSO Cadets (Regular) are expected to report to the Kenya Military Academy, Lanet, Nakuru, on Monday, December 1, 2025, at 6:00 a.m. GSO Cadets (Graduate) will report to the same location a week earlier, on Monday, November 24, 2025.
“The shortlisted candidates are hereby invited for interviews and selection on the dates and locations indicated below,” read the notice in part.
Specialist Officers are scheduled to attend interviews at the Kenya Military Academy on Monday, December 8, 2025, while tradesmen and tradeswomen will report to the Ulinzi Sports Complex, Lang’ata, Nairobi, on Monday, November 3, 2025, at 6:00 a.m.
All shortlisted candidates are required to carry their original National Identification Card (ID), academic and professional certificates, curriculum vitae, and any other relevant testimonials, together with four photocopies of each document.
Guidelines and support for candidates
The KDF has assured candidates of food and accommodation during the interview period. Participants have also been advised to carry warm clothing due to expected cold weather conditions. Unsuccessful applicants will receive reimbursement for travel expenses in line with KDF regulations.
The Ministry of Defence emphasised that the recruitment exercise remains free of charge and strictly merit-based. It further warned that any form of bribery or corruption during the process is a criminal offence. The notice encouraged the public to report suspicious activities or malpractice to the nearest police station, military camp, or via hotline numbers 0726 419 706 or 0726 419 709.