The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has announced the death of three recruits during a scheduled training activity at the Defence Forces Recruits Training School (DFRTS) in Eldoret.
In a statement on Friday, January 30, 2026, KDF said the recruits died while participating in a routine endurance exercise on Thursday, January 29.
According to the military, the recruits developed medical complications during the activity.
“The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) is deeply saddened to announce the tragic loss of three recruits during a scheduled training activity at the Defence Forces Recruits Training School (DFRTS) in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, on 29th January 2026,” the statement read.
KDF announces death of 3 recruits
Immediate medical assistance was provided on-site, and the affected recruits were evacuated to Eldoret Regional Hospital for advanced care.
Despite the efforts of medical personnel, the recruits were pronounced dead. The next of kin have been formally notified, and KDF is providing support to the families.
“KDF conveys its deepest condolences to the families, loved ones, fellow recruits and colleagues of the deceased during this difficult time,” the statement added. “A thorough investigation has been initiated in accordance with established military procedures to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.”
The military emphasized that the findings from the investigation will guide measures to enhance the safety and welfare of personnel undergoing training, reaffirming the KDF’s commitment to high standards of professionalism and care for all its recruits.
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The deaths come after Cohort 01/25 recruits were on November 11, 2025, officially received at DFRTS in a ceremony presided over by Brigadier Alphonce Ndar.
At the event, he encouraged the recruits to stay disciplined and healthy throughout their training.
“I wish you nothing but success, stay healthy, take care of yourselves, and approach your training with discipline and commitment,” Brigadier Ndar said.
The recruits underwent a series of preparatory steps, including document verification, medical screening, biometric registration, kit issuance, and an initial orientation.
2025 recruits join Defence Forces Recruits Training School
This was before they commenced foundational military training covering discipline, physical conditioning, field craft, leadership development, and core soldiering skills. The cohort included both General Duty recruits and Tradesmen and Tradeswomen.
On November 21, 2025, the recruits were formally handed over to the Commandant of DFRTS, Brigadier Peter Kimondiu, after a thorough verification and documentation process.
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Brigadier Ndar praised the recruits for meeting the high standards required for enlistment and highlighted the fairness of the selection process, which assessed candidates’ physical, mental, and psychological fitness.
The Chief Recruiting Officer, Brigadier Samuel Kimani, underscored the KDF’s zero-tolerance policy on drug use and encouraged recruits to prioritize their health and approach training with humility.
Brigadier Kimondiu welcomed the recruits and outlined the three stages of training—breaking, construction, and consolidation—emphasizing the intensity of the program and the importance of maintaining a positive and open attitude throughout. According to KDF, Cohort 01/25 is drawn from all 47 counties of Kenya.
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