University Student Collapses and Dies During KDF Recruitment in Bungoma
A 22-year-old university student from Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) tragically lost his life on Wednesday, October 22, during a Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) recruitment exercise held in Kabuchai constituency, Bungoma County.
According to reports, the young man collapsed while taking part in one of the physically demanding drills that are part of the KDF’s rigorous recruitment process.
Witnesses say the student was among several hopefuls who had gathered early in the morning to compete for limited slots in the military.
Bungoma County Police Commander confirmed the heartbreaking incident, saying the student was participating in a running exercise when he suddenly lost consciousness.
“There was a young man who fainted while running. He was quickly rushed to Chwele Sub-County Hospital, but sadly, he was pronounced dead on arrival,” the police commander said.
Authorities have not yet released the exact cause of death, as a full medical examination and postmortem are expected to determine what led to the tragedy.
The KDF recruitment process is known to be one of the most physically demanding exercises in the country. Applicants are required to go through several endurance tests to measure their physical strength, stamina, and overall fitness levels.
These include long-distance running, push-ups, sit-ups, high jumps, and other high-intensity drills carried out under close supervision by military officers.
Eliud Yegon, one of the officers overseeing the exercise, explained that the physical drills are crucial in determining who is fit enough to join the military.
He said that while many young people dream of serving in the forces, only those who meet the strict fitness standards are selected.
“You must meet the KDF physical fitness requirements. Unfortunately, some young people are eliminated because they use drugs, which weakens their bodies and makes it impossible for them to handle the drills,” Yegon noted.
He further revealed that some candidates were also disqualified due to documentation issues. In several cases, discrepancies between candidates’ birth certificates and national identification cards made it difficult to verify their true identities.
Aside from the physical exercises, candidates must also undergo medical screenings and structured interviews to ensure only the most qualified individuals are selected.
The medical tests check for conditions such as heart problems, respiratory issues, and other health concerns that could affect performance in the field.
The ongoing KDF recruitment drive aims to enlist General Service Officer (GSO) cadets—both regular and graduate—Specialist Officers, General Duty Recruits, Tradesmen and Women, and Defence Forces Constables. The recruitment has attracted thousands of young Kenyans from different counties who are eager to serve their country.
The death of the young MMUST student has sparked sorrow and concern among locals, with many calling for better health checks before and during the physical exercises to prevent similar tragedies.
Some residents have urged the government to ensure that all recruits undergo preliminary medical assessments before participating in the rigorous drills.
As investigations continue, the KDF and local authorities have expressed their condolences to the family of the deceased student.
His death serves as a painful reminder of the extreme physical demands of joining the military and the importance of ensuring that all candidates are medically and physically prepared before taking part in such exercises.
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