The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has confirmed the deaths of three recruits who were undergoing a routine endurance exercise at the Defence Forces Recruits Training School (DFRTS) in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County.
The tragic incident occurred on January 29 and has left the military and affected families in shock.
According to KDF, the recruits experienced medical complications while participating in the scheduled training exercise. Military personnel on site provided immediate medical attention before rushing the recruits to Eldoret Regional Hospital.
Despite the intensive care administered at the hospital, all three recruits were pronounced dead. The exact medical complications that led to their deaths have not been disclosed.
"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 January 29," a statement from KDF read.
KDF has informed the families of the deceased and is providing support during their period of mourning. The military emphasized that it remains committed to offering assistance and guidance to the relatives affected by this tragedy.
In line with standard military procedures, the KDF has launched an investigation to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
The findings of the inquiry are expected to inform any measures needed to prevent similar tragedies in the future and to enhance the safety, health, and welfare of all personnel undergoing training.
"The Kenya Defence Forces remains committed to upholding the highest standards of safety, professionalism and care for all its personnel," the statement added, reaffirming its pledge to maintain rigorous training standards while prioritizing the well-being of recruits.
Military training exercises, particularly those designed to test endurance, carry inherent risks due to their physically demanding nature.
KDF regularly conducts such exercises to prepare recruits for operational duties, but this incident highlights the importance of continuous monitoring, medical readiness, and safety protocols during training activities.
This incident is expected to prompt a thorough review of medical and safety procedures at DFRTS and other military training facilities.
Officials stress that understanding the factors that contributed to these deaths will guide future actions to safeguard recruits and prevent recurrence.
The Kenya Defence Forces remains focused on balancing rigorous training with the health and safety of its personnel, ensuring that all recruits receive appropriate care, supervision, and support throughout their time in training.
