The Kenya Defence Forces recruit soldiers from all over the country, and the recruitment process is highly competitive. According to Colonel Meshack Kishoyan, Chief Instructor of KDF recruits, the recruits report for training at different stages.
Some have been in environments that involve walking over long distances, while others have often never walked for more than a kilometre. Therefore, this calls for more training on their part.
Prospective recruits must meet certain basic requirements, such as being a Kenyan citizen, having a minimum age of 18, and meeting certain physical and educational standards.
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The recruitment process involves a series of physical and mental tests, including a medical examination, physical fitness test, and aptitude tests. Verifying the documents and medication takes about two weeks, after which the official training starts.
Basic Training
Once selected, recruits undergo basic training at the KDF training school in Eldoret. Basic training is an intensive and physically demanding process lasting approximately nine months.
In this phase, recruits are taught the fundamentals of military life, including military discipline, weapons handling, first aid, map reading, and survival skills. Recruits also undergo physical fitness training, which includes long-distance running, obstacle courses, and strength training.
According to Sergeant Alvin Otieno, a physical training instructor on the war front in Somalia, physical fitness is the basic foundation of every soldier.
Advanced Training
After completing basic training, soldiers are assigned to specialized units and undergo advanced individual training. They learn both offensive and defensive lessons, according to Col. Meshack Kishoyan.
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This training phase is designed to develop specialized skills required for each unit. For example, soldiers assigned to the infantry will undergo training in combat tactics, marksmanship, and leadership. Those assigned to the aviation corps will undergo training in flying, aircraft maintenance, and aviation medicine.
Specialized Training
Specialized training is designed for soldiers who will be serving in highly specialized units, such as the special forces, air force, and military intelligence.
Specialized training is much more advanced and rigorous, focusing on specific skills and tactics needed for each unit. For example, soldiers in the special forces undergo training in parachuting, advanced combat tactics, and survival skills.
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Throughout the training process, soldiers are subjected to high-stress levels, sleep deprivation, and physical challenges. This is designed to prepare them for the difficult and demanding nature of military life, where they may be called upon to serve in dangerous and unpredictable situations.
Medical Conditions
According to Col. Dr Bernard Edalia, a Senior Medical Officer, individuals with underlying medical conditions may suffer adverse complications during training. Therefore, such individuals are best advised not to enrol for the training.
Likewise, individuals who’ve been on treatment for mental illnesses or those who’ve been through rehabilitation centres for substance abuse may not be suitable for training. Once exposed to the rigours of training, these individuals may manifest or develop adjustment disorders.
Overall, the Kenya Defence Forces training program is one of the most rigorous in the region and is designed to prepare soldiers for the challenges of military life while ensuring that they have the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their roles.