The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has confirmed the deaths of three recruits during a routine training exercise at the Defence Forces Recruits Training School in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, on January 29, 2026. The recruits suffered medical complications, received immediate on-site care, and were rushed to Eldoret Regional Hospital, where they were pronounced dead despite intensive treatment. KDF has launched an investigation to determine the circumstances.
The incident occurred during a scheduled training activity, prompting a formal statement from KDF expressing deep sorrow. According to the KDF, "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." The recruits developed medical complications amid the exercise, received prompt on-site medical aid, and were transported to the hospital.
KDF has informed the families of the deceased and offered support during their mourning period. An investigation has been initiated in accordance with military protocols to ascertain the details of the event, with results expected to guide improvements in personnel safety and welfare. The statement added, "The Kenya Defence Forces remains committed to upholding the highest standards of safety, professionalism and care for all its personnel."
Such tragedies are not unprecedented; KDF has previously reported recruit deaths during demanding physical drills. For instance, in October 2025, two university students collapsed and died during recruitment in Bungoma County. In November 2023, four recruits succumbed to internal bleeding at the Eldoret training school. A fatality occurred in Malindi in February 2021, and in October 2023, a Garissa University student passed away during a KDF recruitment exercise after collapsing amid physical tests.
These deaths often stem from extreme physical stress, environmental factors, and undiagnosed health conditions, though KDF emphasizes its dedication to safety protocols.
