Ministry warns against buying calling letters ahead of KDF recruitment

The Ministry of Defence will now send text messages to mobile subscribers warning them against fraudsters ahead of Kenya Defence Forces recruitment.

In a text message, the Department of Defence headquarters says the recruitment will be free of charge.

The message asked Kenyans to report fraud to two dedicated numbers for action.

The ministry has partnered with various stakeholders including police for action amid reports cons are demanding up to Sh400,000 for calling letters for one to join the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF).

Some of these letters could be fake hence fears many will be conned.

“The Ministry of Defence will recruit KDF Cadets/Recruits between Aug & Sept 2023. Do not buy calling letters from anyone. Recruitment is FREE of charge. Report Fraud to 0726419706/0726419709,” read part of the message sent out.

Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale said last week the forthcoming countrywide military recruitment drive shall be free, fair and above board for all qualified Kenyan youths.

He made an undertaking to have the recruitment paint a national picture by having military officers and service members selected from across the country and cautioned parents not to give any money to secure the slots.

This follows fears some marginalised groups may be left out of the drive.

Politicians are among those pushing for their kin and constituents hence fears of high-level lobbying and canvassing.

The Ministry of Defence has announced new recruitment into Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) in August and September 2023.

KDF is seeking to hire General Service Officer (GSO) Cadets (Regular and Graduate degree holders), Specialist Officers, General Duty Recruits, Tradesmen/women, and Defence Forces Constables.

All interested candidates for Specialist Officers and Tradesmen/women vacancies must apply online.

The deadline for applications for these categories is August 20, 2023. Shortlisted candidates will be notified through the print media between September 17 to 24, 2023.

The other group will be recruited at various centres between August 28 and September 8.

There are fears of high demand in the exercise and hence graft.

Past such events have seen many being duped to pay for fake letters hence the warnings.

Several agencies including the Ethics and Anti Corruption Commission, human rights agencies and police will monitor the exercise.