NAIROBI, KENYA – The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has officially released the list of shortlisted candidates for various military roles and announced the dates and venues for their subsequent interviews, marking a crucial phase in its 2025 national recruitment exercise. The announcement, made public on Friday, October 24, 2025, and published on Saturday, October 25, 2025, covers applicants for the positions of General Service Officer (GSO) Cadets (both Regular and Graduate), Specialist Officers, and Tradesmen/women.

This stage follows a nationwide application process that commenced on September 15, 2025, inviting qualified Kenyan citizens to apply for a range of positions within the armed forces. The process is a significant annual undertaking for the KDF, aimed at replenishing its ranks and enhancing its operational readiness to meet national and regional security challenges.

Interview Schedules and Venues

The Ministry of Defence has outlined a detailed schedule for the interviews, which will run from early November to early December 2025. Candidates have been directed to report to two primary locations: the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Lang'ata, Nairobi, and the Kenya Military Academy (KMA) in Lanet, Nakuru.

The interview schedule is as follows:

• Tradesmen and Women: The first group to be interviewed, these candidates are required to report to the Ulinzi Sports Complex in Lang'ata on Monday, November 3, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. EAT. This category includes individuals with technical and vocational skills such as mechanics, electricians, carpenters, and clerks who provide essential support services to the KDF.
• GSO Cadets (Graduate): University graduates shortlisted for this officer training program are scheduled to report to the Kenya Military Academy in Lanet on Monday, November 24, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. EAT. These recruits undergo a shorter, intensive military leadership training program due to their existing academic qualifications.
• GSO Cadets (Regular): This cohort, forming the core of the future KDF officer corps, will have their interviews at the Kenya Military Academy in Lanet on Monday, December 1, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. EAT. Successful candidates in this category will embark on a three-year military and academic program, culminating in a Bachelor of Science in Military and Security Studies.
• Specialist Officers: The final group, comprising professionals in fields like medicine, engineering, and law, are scheduled for interviews on Monday, December 8, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. EAT, also at the Kenya Military Academy.

Mandatory Requirements and Integrity Warnings

The KDF has mandated that all shortlisted candidates must present several original documents for verification. These include their National Identification Card, academic and professional certificates, a detailed Curriculum Vitae, and any other relevant testimonials. Candidates are also required to bring four photocopies of each document. The military has confirmed that food and accommodation will be provided for the duration of the interview period, and unsuccessful candidates will have their travel expenses reimbursed in line with KDF regulations. All attendees have been advised to carry warm clothing.

In its official communication, the Ministry of Defence issued a stern warning against corruption, emphasizing that the recruitment process is free and fair to all eligible Kenyans. "Engaging in bribery or any form of corruption to influence the recruitment process is a criminal offence. Any person found engaging in recruitment-related malpractice will be arrested and prosecuted," the notice stated. The public has been urged to report any fraudulent activities to the nearest police station, military camp, or via dedicated hotlines (0726419706 / 0726419709).

Significance for National Security and Employment

The annual recruitment drive is a cornerstone of Kenya's national security strategy, ensuring a steady influx of skilled and disciplined personnel to protect the nation's sovereignty. For thousands of young Kenyans, it represents a significant employment opportunity and a path to a structured career in public service. The process is highly competitive, attracting a large number of applicants from across the country each year.

The successful candidates from this interview stage will proceed to rigorous medical evaluations and, finally, to foundational military training at various KDF institutions. This marks the beginning of their journey towards becoming commissioned officers and service members in one of East Africa's most professional and respected military forces.