President Uhuru Kenyatta has on Friday presided over KDF’s recruits pass out parade held at Moi Barracks in Eldoret.

The president hailed the army as a force for good for peace and security in our region and beyond.

“Today as you join the Kenya Defence Forces, remember that our military commands honour, respect, and admiration in the region, and, indeed, across the globe. Our servicemen and women inspire confidence, patriotism, and pride in the hearts of our people,” Kenyatta said.

The president, who was accompanied to the colourful ceremony by First Lady Margaret Kenyatta, advised the soldiers to be soldiers who can be emulated with their actions outside the camp.

The president further noted that KDF has a tradition of excellence, honour, duty, and professionalism which places the Kenyan military way above its contemporaries.

“This is the proud history, culture, and heritage that today’s graduands are so privileged to join. You must wake up every day committed to going to bed a better soldier than when you woke up. Have a passion for your profession, and take pride in your work. Be the soldier that future graduands look up to and seek to model their behaviour on,” he said.

While congratulating the graduands for the successful completion of the basic training course, Uhuru said their admission into KDF was significant because they were joining the service at a time when Kenya is facing external threats.

“I congratulate you all for successfully completing your basic training. You are joining the ranks of our defence forces at a consequential time in our nation’s history; a time when our sovereignty and the inviolability of our borders are subject to unprecedented threats,” he said.

The president further urged Kenyans to cooperate with security agencies at all times and to always report threats to the country’s peace and security.

The ceremony was also attended by several senior government and military officials led by Defence CS Eugene Wamalwa, Uasin Gishu Governor Jackson Mandago and Chief of the Defence Forces Robert Kibochi.

Graduands who excelled in different aspects of their training were also awarded.

Meshack Kiptanui and Josphat Kamau Gatheca, both of the Kenya Army were awarded for being the best and second-best recruits respectively while Braxildah Chepkorir of Kenya Navy was honoured for emerging the best female recruit.

The award for the best combat marksmen was won by Yaasini Ahmad Hausi of the Kenya Navy.