Kenyan youth who participated in the recently concluded Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) recruitment drive can now check if they made it to the shortlisted candidates list.

KDF, on Friday, published the list of 1,606 candidates in the running to join the force as either tradesmen and women or specialist officers.

The shortlist included 347 individuals tapped to serve as specialist officers and 1,259 for the tradesmen and women position.

The defense forces also revealed the interview dates and locations for the successfully shortlisted candidates.

The announcement is in line with Vice Chief of Defense Forces Lieutenant John Mwangi's promise to release the list shortly after the closure of the recruitment drive on Friday, September 8.

“We wish to thank all the youth who turned up for the recruitment drive your presence was a strong demonstration of your patriotism and desire to serve our great Republic," he announced at the time.

"The Ministry of Defence congratulates all those who were successful and welcome you to participate in the collective delivery of KDF’s constitutional mandate. To those who were not successful, we laud you for courage and competitive spirit and urge you to remain steadfast in your quest for opportunities to serve our country."

Individuals who took part in the recruitment drive were advised to visit the Ministry of Defence website at www.mod.go.ke and toggle to the downloads section.

Alternatively, applicants can visit verified social media accounts for KDF to access the link directing them to the list of the shortlisted candidates.

For interviews, tradesmen and women were directed to report to Embakasi Garrison in Nairobi on Monday 25 September 2023 beginning at 8.00 am. Specialist officers, on the other hand, will attend interviews at the KMA in Lanet, Nakuru County, beginning at 8.00 am.

"All candidates must bring with them original National Identity (ID) Card and four copies of their academic, professional certificates, curriculum vitae and any other testimonials," read the statement.

"Feeding and accommodation will be provided during the period of interview. Unsuccessful candidates will be reimbursed road traveling expenses in accordance with KDF Regulations."