Kenya’s military is set to deepen its modernisation efforts while placing greater focus on the welfare of troops and their readiness to deal with changing security demands, Chief of Defence Forces General Charles Kahariri has said.
Speaking on Thursday during President William Ruto’s presiding over the 46th Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) passing-out parade at the Defence Forces Recruits Training School in Uasin Gishu County, Kahariri said the newly trained personnel were now ready to begin service in their respective units and formations.
The ceremony marked the completion of training for Cohort 01/25, with the CDF describing the programme as a demanding process aimed at preparing the recruits for the responsibilities that come with military service.
Kahariri said the recruits had joined the training school as civilians from different parts of the country and backgrounds but were leaving as disciplined soldiers, sailors and airmen united by a common duty to serve and protect Kenya.
“Today we mark the culmination of rigorous, demanding, and transformative training. These cohorts arrived here as civilians from various walks of life in this republic. They leave here today as soldiers, sailors, and airmen, forged in discipline, tempered by hardship, and bound together by a shared oath,” General Kahariri stated.
He said the tough nature of the training was necessary because KDF personnel carry the responsibility of protecting millions of Kenyans, defending the country’s sovereignty and way of life, and remaining ready to make the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation.
The CDF urged the new personnel to maintain the standards expected of the military as they move from the training school to their respective units and formations.
“Your Excellency, these new soldiers are inheriting a proud legacy. The Kenya Defense Forces is respected across the continent and beyond for outstanding professionalism, discipline, and service, from securing our borders to peacekeeping regionally and across the globe, and to standing with Kenyans in times of disasters and national emergencies.”
Kahariri said the work of the KDF goes beyond guarding the country’s borders, noting that the military also takes part in regional and international peacekeeping missions and supports Kenyans during disasters and national emergencies.
He thanked President Ruto for his leadership and support to the Ministry of Defence and the military, saying the KDF had embarked on a transformation programme aimed at ensuring the force remains prepared for changing security needs.
“The Kenya Defence Forces is embarking on a transformation journey focused on modernising the force, improving the welfare of our troops and preparing for contemporary and future requirements amid changing warfare.”
According to Kahariri, the transformation agenda will also cover defence industrialisation and efforts to strengthen the KDF’s contribution to national development.
He also recognised the commandant, instructors and other personnel involved in training the recruits, thanking them for their role in ensuring the cohort successfully completed the programme.
The CDF reaffirmed that the military would continue serving within the Constitution while maintaining loyalty, professionalism and respect for its constitutional responsibilities.
“I commit, Your Excellency, on behalf of all those who serve in the KDF, that you are assured of our loyalty, professionalism, and adherence to our constitutional mandate,” he said.
Kahariri said President Ruto’s presence at the passing-out parade would inspire the new personnel as they begin their transition from intensive training to active military service.