President William Ruto presided over the 2025 Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) Day celebrations on Tuesday, held at the Moi Barracks in Eldoret, where he paid a powerful tribute to the nation’s servicemen and women, describing them as the unwavering “shield and sword” of the Republic.
In his address, the President honored the “enduring courage and steadfast devotion to duty” of uniformed personnel, which he said has been instrumental in safeguarding the country’s sovereignty. He acknowledged the “immense sacrifices” made by soldiers, past and present, who often serve in punishing terrains far from their families to uphold national security and stability.
“Our soldiers carry the hopes of generations, the pride of our people, and the dignity of our flag,” President Ruto stated.
As both President and Commander-in-Chief, Ruto expressed profound pride not only in the KDF’s success in defending the nation’s borders but also celebrated their role as “exemplary agents of national unity and development.”
He further called on all Kenyans to “stand firmly behind our Kenya Defence Forces by according them the respect and gratitude they so richly deserve.”
The KDF Day celebrations serve as an annual reminder of the vital role the military plays in protecting the nation’s interests and fostering cohesion. This year’s event underscored the government’s commitment to recognizing the force’s dual contribution to security and national development.
