Ruto: Government to strengthen KDF readiness amid emerging security threats

President William Ruto presided over the passing out parade of over 5,000 recruits at the Kenya Defence Forces Recruits Training School in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, on Thursday. The President emphasized that the government will continue to invest in the welfare, training, and readiness of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) to combat emerging security challenges. These threats include cybercrime, artificial intelligence, climate change-induced disruptions, and emerging diseases.

Ruto assured that the government would ensure KDF members and their families receive the recognition and dignity they deserve. He pointed out that the nature of warfare is changing and that the KDF must be prepared to face new threats. The President also highlighted the KDF's role in regional peace missions and stressed that national security is critical to Kenya's development.

He mentioned that Kenya must develop its own defense model that contributes to national progress, based on constitutional principles. President Ruto warned that future threats may come in unexpected forms, such as cyber attacks, drone invasions, AI disruptions, and climate-induced displacement. He underscored that security and development are interlinked, with security enabling development and development strengthening security.

The President highlighted the KDF's engineering department's role in supporting critical infrastructure, including the construction of the Raila Odinga International Stadium and the Bomas International Convention Complex. He also discussed the KDF's efforts to rebuild its shipbuilding capacity through Kenya Shipyards Ltd and the Kenya Navy, with the recent MV Uhuru II ship as an example of industrial defense capability.

President Ruto emphasized that the passing-out parade marked the beginning of a rewarding career, requiring the recruits to exercise judgment under pressure, lead, and distinguish lawful authority from abuse. He congratulated the recruits and their families, acknowledging the sacrifices made by parents and guardians in raising these young Kenyans.

The President concluded by stressing that the future soldier must be technologically skilled, intellectually curious, and constitutional grounded to succeed in their military careers.