President Ruto Hails KDF for Sacrifice and Service During 2025 Kenya Defence Forces Day Celebrations in Eldoret

 

President William Ruto on Tuesday led the nation in marking this year’s Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) Day celebrations, held at Moi Barracks in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County. The President paid glowing tribute to the men and women in uniform, lauding their unwavering courage, discipline, and devotion to duty in defending Kenya’s sovereignty and promoting national unity.

In a stirring address delivered as Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, President Ruto expressed deep gratitude to the KDF for their sacrifices—often made in hostile and remote environments—to keep the country safe and secure.

"Today, we honour our gallant men and women in uniform whose enduring courage and steadfast devotion to duty have safeguarded our sovereignty," said the President.
"Our soldiers are the shield and sword of our Republic; they carry the hopes of generations, the pride of our people, and the dignity of our flag."

He emphasized the critical role the KDF plays not only in protecting national borders, but also in contributing to humanitarian missions, national development, and regional peace efforts.

"Beyond their battlefield heroics, our defence forces continue to serve as exemplary agents of unity and development. Their work in disaster response, infrastructure development, and peacekeeping efforts is a shining example of service beyond self," he added.

Calling on Kenyans to support the armed forces, President Ruto urged the public to stand firmly behind the military by according them the respect and gratitude they "so richly deserve."

The 2025 KDF Day celebration featured a full military parade, demonstrations by various branches of the armed forces, and tributes to fallen heroes. Senior government officials, military leadership, foreign dignitaries, and thousands of citizens attended the event.

Instituted in 2011, KDF Day is observed annually to honour serving and fallen soldiers for their role in defending Kenya and contributing to peace and security efforts both locally and abroad.

This year’s event, held in the heart of the Rift Valley, served not only as a commemoration of military service but also a unifying moment for the nation, reinforcing the critical bond between the armed forces and the citizenry.

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