President William Ruto has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to improving the welfare, capacity, and readiness of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), as he led the nation in celebrating the 2025 KDF Day at Moi Barracks in Eldoret.
Speaking during the event themed “Enhancing a Social-Centric Approach Towards Mission Readiness for National Security and Development,” President Ruto praised the gallant men and women of the KDF for their courage, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to safeguarding Kenya’s sovereignty and supporting national progress.
“This occasion is a moment of deep national pride — a day when we pause as a nation to honor our gallant men and women in uniform whose enduring courage and steadfast devotion to duty have safeguarded our sovereignty, upheld our security, and advanced our stability and prosperity,” he said.
The President said the government has prioritized four key areas to strengthen the foundation of the Defence Forces, welfare, training, modernization, and psychological support.
“We have expanded healthcare in military facilities, accelerated housing projects across service bases and barracks, and enhanced family support programs. When a soldier has the comfort of knowing that their family is safe and supported, they serve with sharper focus, greater courage, and unshakable resolve,” he stated.
He further underscored the government’s commitment to continuous training and capacity building to ensure KDF remains mission-ready and globally competitive.
“We have upgraded training facilities, integrated advanced simulation technologies, and deepened professional military education through collaboration with allied nations. Our troops now train alongside the best, mastering both conventional and modern forms of warfare, ”the president said.
On modernization, the Head of State noted that bravery alone is not enough to win battles — preparedness is. He revealed that the government has fast-tracked the acquisition of modern defense systems, improved mobility platforms, and strengthened cyber and intelligence capabilities to keep pace with evolving threats.
The President also lauded the KDF for their exemplary contribution to nation-building, from constructing roads, hospitals, and schools to supporting humanitarian operations during disasters.
“Across Kenya, the fingerprints of the KDF are everywhere. You have built roads that connect communities, hospitals that give hope, and schools that nurture dreams,” he said.
Emphasizing the close link between security and development, President Ruto stated, “Security and development are two sides of the same coin. Without security, there can be no sustainable development, and without development, insecurity finds fertile ground.”
He concluded by paying tribute to fallen soldiers and reaffirming his government’s commitment to their families.
“We owe an unending debt of gratitude to them and to their families, whose sacrifice continues to inspire our nation’s resolve,” he said.