Three Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) recruits have died following a training incident at the Defence Forces Recruits Training School (DFRTS) in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County.
In a statement issued on January 30, 2026, the KDF said the incident occurred a day earlier during a routine endurance exercise in which several recruits collapsed.
The affected trainees were administered first aid at the training ground before being rushed to Eldoret Regional Hospital for further treatment.
However, three recruits later succumbed while receiving medical care.
The military said other recruits who were affected were treated and subsequently discharged.
“Immediate medical assistance was provided on-site, and the recruits were evacuated to Eldoret Regional Hospital for advanced care,” the statement said.
“Regrettably, they were pronounced dead despite the best efforts of our medical teams.”
The KDF expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and said the next of kin have been formally notified.
The military assured the families of full support and assistance during the period of mourning.
An investigation has been launched in line with established procedures to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The Defence Forces reiterated their commitment to the safety and welfare of all personnel undergoing training.
Edited by John Majau
