A student from Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) in Kakamega has died after collapsing during the ongoing Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) recruitment exercise in Kabuchai Constituency, Bungoma County.
The 22-year-old reportedly collapsed on Wednesday October 22, while participating in a running session at the Chwele recruitment centre.
According to Bungoma Central Sub-County Police Commander David Saina, the recruit was rushed to Chwele Sub-County Hospital, where doctors pronounced him dead on arrival.
“The recruit fainted during the physical exercise stage and was confirmed dead on arrival at the hospital at about noon. His body has been taken to the Bungoma Referral Hospital mortuary,” Saina said.
MMUST Student Dies During KDF Recruitment in Bungoma
After collapsing, he was rushed to Chwele Sub-County Hospital, where doctors examined him and pronounced him dead.
The student has been identified as Eugene Wamwala.
The cause of death has not yet been determined, pending a postmortem and a comprehensive medical examination.
The nationwide KDF recruitment exercise, which began on October 13, is expected to conclude on October 25.
Also Read: KDF Explains Why Hundreds of Kenyans Have Been Locked Out of Recruitment
Kilifi Man Dies During KDF Recruitment
In 2023, a 25-year-old man, Harrison Karisa, died while undergoing treatment at the Kilifi County Hospital Intensive Care Unit (ICU) after taking part in a Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) recruitment exercise.
According to his relative, Elias Uhuru, Karisa had no known health issues prior to the incident.
“He left home on Tuesday to attend the recruitment at Karisa Maitha grounds in Kilifi town. He went through all the procedures and later joined the running session. On his way back, just a few metres from the recruitment field, he collapsed,” Uhuru said.
He added that Karisa was immediately taken to a military tent at the venue, where he was given first aid before being rushed to Kilifi County Hospital.
Despite efforts to save his life, Karisa’s condition worsened, and he was admitted to the ICU.
“He was among the leading runners, and we all believed he had a good chance of being selected. It was shocking to see him collapse,” Uhuru said.
Also Read: How KDF Recovered Body of Drowned Man at Chepkorio Dam After Six-Day Search
KDF Recruitment Exercise Enters Week 2
Meanwhile, KDF successfully conducted a recruitment exercise in Gilgil, Nakuru County, as part of its nationwide drive to enlist qualified, disciplined, and physically fit young Kenyans into the Service.
The exercise, held at Gilgil Stadium, was streamed live on KDF platforms to promote transparency and educate the public on the recruitment process.
However, several candidates were disqualified due to medical issues, including drug abuse—an ongoing challenge that disqualifies otherwise capable individuals.
At the same time, applicants underwent a comprehensive assessment process that included academic document verification, physical fitness tests, medical examinations, and structured interviews.
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