President Ruto in KDF combat uniform for the first time as Commander-in-Chief

President William Ruto appeared in a Kenya Army combat uniform on Tuesday marking his first appearance in KDF attire since assuming office.

In photos released by State House, Ruto is seen walking from his office while heading for a KDF Day event Moi Barack’s, Eldoret.

The Kenya Defence Forces are set to mark their 14th KDF Day celebrations at Moi Barracks, Eldoret, as Kenyans pause to honour the bravery, sacrifice, and patriotism of the men and women in uniform.

In a statement on the official X account on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, KDF shared a celebratory message to KDF soldiers who are the heartbeat of Kenya’s defense and the driving force behind national development.

“We celebrate our soldiers, the heartbeat of our defense and the driving force behind national development. Happy KDF Day!” KDF wrote.

The celebrations, which are rallied behind themes, saw the Commander of the Kenya Army, Lieutenant General David Ketter, accompanied by the General Officer Commanding Western Command, Major General Jeff Nyagah, on October 6, 2025, leading the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) in a community service.

At the time, in an act of compassion and commitment to community service, KDF took part in a series of community outreach initiatives in Eldoret ahead of the upcoming Kenya Defence Forces Day 2025.

KDF Day was established following the launch of “Operation Linda Nchi” on October 14, 2011, which was a military operation in Somalia. The day is an annual tradition that serves to honour the courage, commitment, and sacrifices of Kenyan soldiers, both those who have served and those who have paid the ultimate price.

Worth noting, while KDF Day was established in 2011, it took its first observance on October 14, 2012. So far, the forces have commemorated at least 14 KDF Days marked with pomp and celebrations, which are often wrapped around various themes.

On the other hand, as the Soldiers celebrate the KDF day, the 2025 Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) recruitment exercise has officially begun, offering Kenyans the chance to serve in the Army, Air Force, or Navy. The drive was launched on Monday, October 13, 2025.

This year’s exercise is designed to provide clear pathways for a wide range of roles, from entry-level General Duty Recruits to Specialist Officers and tradespeople.

KDF has vowed to seal all corruption loopholes in the 2025 recruiment exercise.