University student dies during KDF recruitment exercise in Bungoma
By Kenneth Mwenda, October 23, 2025A 22-year-old university student died on Wednesday, October 22, during a Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) recruitment exercise in Kabuchai constituency, Bungoma County.
The student, who was pursuing his studies at Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST), reportedly collapsed while taking part in one of the physically demanding training drills that mark the initial stage of recruitment.
Bungoma County Police Commander confirmed the incident, saying the young man was among dozens of hopeful recruits participating in a running exercise when he lost Confirming the incident, the Bungoma Central Sub-County Police Commander, David Saina, said the young man collapsed during the exercise and was rushed to Chwele Sub-County Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
“Kuna kijana mmoja alizirai wakati wanakimbia and then akakimbizwa hospitali, Chwele subcounty hospital. Na alipofika huko, akaangaliwa na daktari. Wakati bado anaangaliwa akakuwa confirmed,” the police boss said.
The cause of death has not yet been made public pending a postmortem and full medical examination.
KDF recruitment exercises are known for their tough physical demands, meant to assess the strength, endurance, and resilience of potential recruits. The drills include long-distance running, push-ups, sit-ups, and other endurance tests carried out under close supervision.
Eliud Yegon, one of the officers in charge of the exercise, explained that such drills are essential in determining who is physically capable of serving in the disciplined forces.
KDF introduces digital recruitment
This year’s recruitment drive targets General Service Officer (GSO) cadets – both regular and graduate – Specialist Officers, General Duty Recruits, Tradesmen and Women, and Defence Forces Constables.
In a move to enhance transparency and curb fraud, the KDF has introduced a fully digital recruitment system for its 2025 intake. The system manages the entire recruitment workflow – from document verification to candidate notification – without human interference.
Senior Recruiting Officer for Murang’a East, Gabriel Kotikot, said the new scanners help record and track every candidate through the process.
“We scan all the documents, upload them into the system, and monitor every stage. The system automatically generates calling letters for successful candidates,” he explained.
Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya has maintained that the recruitment exercise will be fair and transparent. She said the new system will ensure integrity and inclusivity while discouraging corruption and human manipulation during the selection process.