The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has officially opened its 2025 nationwide recruitment, inviting eligible Kenyans to apply for positions across the military. Applications are being received exclusively via the official portal — recruit.mod.go.ke.
This year’s recruitment covers a variety of categories, from degree-holding cadets to general recruits, offering opportunities for both men and women to serve their nation.
🔰 Positions Open for Recruitment
1. General Service Officer (GSO) Cadet – Regular
2. General Service Officer (GSO) Cadet – Graduate
3. Specialist Officers
4. General Duty Recruits
5. Tradesmen and Tradeswomen
6. Defence Forces Constables
📅 Key Recruitment Dates
Online Application Deadline: 12th October 2025
Shortlisted Candidates Announcement: 21st – 24th October 2025
Physical Recruitment (General Duty & Constables): 13th – 25th October 2025
All applications for Cadets, Specialist Officers, and Tradesmen/Women must be completed online at recruit.mod.go.ke.
🧾 KDF Recruitment 2025 Requirements
1. Citizenship & Documentation
Must be a Kenyan citizen by birth.
Hold a valid National ID and KRA PIN Certificate.
Present original academic and professional certificates.
Must have a clean criminal record.
2. Age Limits
Category Age Limit
GSO Cadets / General Duty Recruits 18 – 26 years
Specialist Officers / Tradesmen & Women Up to 30 years
Chaplains / Imams Up to 39 years
Defence Forces Constables 30 – 55 years (retired KDF) / 35 – 45 years (retired NYS)
3. Academic Qualifications
GSO Cadet (Regular): KCSE mean grade B (Plain), with C+ in English, Mathematics, and one science subject.
GSO Cadet (Graduate): Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
Specialist Officers: Degree in relevant field + registration with a statutory body (where applicable).
Tradesmen/Women: Diploma or Certificate in a technical trade.
General Duty Recruits: KCSE mean grade D (Plain) or higher.
4. Physical & Medical Standards
Height: Men – 1.60m, Women – 1.52m
Weight: Men – 54.55kg, Women – 50kg
BMI below 30
Must be physically and medically fit
Female candidates must not be pregnant during recruitment or training
💻 Step-by-Step: How to Apply Online via recruit.mod.go.ke
1. Visit the official portal
2. Create an Account – Register with your name, email, ID number, and password.
3. Login and complete your profile (personal details, education, contacts).
4. Upload scanned documents:
National ID (front & back)
Academic certificates
Birth certificate
KRA PIN certificate
Passport photo
5. Select your desired position (GSO Cadet, Specialist Officer, etc.).
6. Submit your application and download the confirmation slip.
7. Track your application status on the portal (e.g. Under Review, Shortlisted).
📢 After Application
Shortlisted candidates will be notified on the portal and via print media between 21st–24th October 2025.
Physical recruitment (for General Duty & Constables) will take place 13th–25th October 2025 at designated county centers.
Successful applicants proceed to medical screening, interviews, and training.
⚠️ Important Notice
Recruitment is 100% free.
Do not pay anyone to influence the process.
Only use the official portal – recruit.mod.go.ke.
Report any suspicious activity to KDF or your nearest police station.
💡 Tips for a Successful Application
Prepare your documents in PDF or JPEG format, under 2MB.
Use a stable internet connection when applying.
Always use your own email and phone number.
Stay physically fit – training is rigorous.
Log in regularly for updates or shortlisting results.
🏆 Final Thoughts
The KDF Recruitment 2025 drive offers patriotic Kenyans the opportunity to serve their country with honor and discipline. Whether you’re applying as a cadet, officer, or tradesperson, ensure your documents are genuine, your fitness is solid, and your application is submitted on time.
👉 Apply now via the official KDF portal: https://recruit.mod.go.ke
About the Author
