KDF recruitment 2026 in Nairobi: Date, venue, and what to carry

The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has announced the dates and locations for its nationwide recruitment exercise in December 2026. The Ministry of Defence is inviting Kenyans to join the Kenya Army, Kenya Air Force and Kenya Navy under various recruitment categories. The physical exercise for General Duty Recruits will take place from December 14 to December 28, 2026, at designated centres in all 47 counties.

In Nairobi, potential applicants must visit specific venues based on the recruitment schedule. Besides General Duty Recruits, the military is also accepting applications for General Service Officer (GSO) Cadets, Specialist Officers and Tradesmen and Women. While the latter two categories require online submissions, General Duty Recruits must present their documents in person.

To participate, candidates must carry their Kenyan citizenship proof, birth certificate, educational certificates, and a recent passport-sized photograph. They should be Kenyan citizens aged between 18 and 26 years, free of criminal records, and meet minimum health, physical, and academic standards. Minimum KCSE mean grades are set at D plain for General Duty Recruits, with specific height, weight, and BMI requirements for men and women.

The KDF has cautioned against recruiters demanding payment, warning that bribery and coercion are criminal offenses. Biometric verification will be the sole identification method during the recruitment process, so candidates should not expect to receive calling letters. Any information about recruitment malpractice can be reported to the nearest police station, military camp, or by calling the designated hotline.