The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) has announced the death of three recruits said to have succumbed to medical complications during a scheduled training exercise at the Defence Forces Recruits Training School (DFRTS) in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County.
In a statement issued Friday, KDF said the incident occurred Thursday, January 29, 2026, during a routine endurance exercise that forms part of the recruits’ training programme.
According to the military, the exercise was conducted under established procedures and supervision.
“KDF is deeply saddened to announce the tragic loss of three recruits during a scheduled training activity at the Defence Forces Recruits Training School,” the statement read.
The recruits reportedly developed medical complications while taking part in the exercise.
On-site medical personnel responded immediately and administered first aid before the affected recruits were evacuated to Eldoret Regional Hospital for further treatment.
“Immediate medical assistance was administered by on-site medical personnel, after which the affected recruits were evacuated to Eldoret Regional Hospital for advanced medical care,” KDF said.
Despite what the military described as “concerted efforts” by medical teams at the facility, the three recruits were pronounced dead.
KDF confirmed that the next of kin of the deceased have been formally notified and that the institution is providing support to the affected families during the difficult period.
“The next of kin have been formally notified, and the Kenya Defence Forces is providing the necessary support and assistance to the affected families,” the statement said.
KDF conveyed its condolences to the families, loved ones, fellow recruits, and colleagues of the deceased, describing the loss as a painful moment for the military fraternity.
“KDF conveys its deepest condolences to the families, loved ones, fellow recruits, and colleagues of the deceased during this difficult time,” the statement added.
In response to the incident, the military has launched a comprehensive investigation in line with established military procedures to determine the circumstances that led to the deaths.
“A thorough investigation has been initiated in accordance with established military procedures to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident,” KDF said, noting that the outcome would guide any further action.
According to the military, the findings of the inquiry will inform measures aimed at strengthening safety protocols and enhancing the welfare of personnel undergoing training.
The Kenya Defence Forces reiterated its commitment to maintaining high standards of safety, professionalism and care across all its training institutions, even as it mourns the loss of the three recruits.
“The Kenya Defence Forces remains committed to upholding the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and care for all its personnel,” it added.
The incident comes in the wake of the death of another recruit at the Administration Police College and another one at the main campus in Kiganjo.
In the Kiganjo incident, the recruit was killed after a speeding vehicle struck a group of recruits who were on a morning jog along Marua–Chaka Road in Kiganjo, Nyeri County.
Police said the driver also injured 27 other recruits in the incident, which occurred on January 23, 2026.
