Kenya Defence Force Ranks

The Kenya Defence Force (KDF) is one of Kenya’s security arms in charge of the country’s warfare on Land, Sea and Air. The primary objective of the KDF is to DEFEND and PROTECT the SOVEREIGNTY and territorial INTEGRITY of the Republic of Kenya.

About Kenya Defence Force – KDF Ranks

The KDF rank system is a hierarchical relationship that provides a system of leadership that indicates a soldier’s level of expertise, responsibility and authority. Each level of leadership has a significant role in the total KDF mission.

Read Also: KDF Recruitment

KDF ranks have adopted a distinct two-tier system of Officers and Service Members. Officers are at the top of the hierarchy and are granted commission by the Commander-in-Chief, thus referred to as commissioned officers and service members are referred to as Other Rank Officers. 

Ranks are displayed on the shoulder of each KDF member. The KDF has a meritocracy system where one has to pass promotional examinations, be disciplined and have the integrity to be considered for the next rank.

Types of Ranks in the KDF

The Kenya Defence Force is made up of two distinct ranks across all three arms (Army, Airforce, and Navy). These are;

1. Commissioned Ranks (Officer Ranks)
2. Service Members Ranks (Other Ranks)

Read Also: Kenya Air Force Ranks

Ranks in the Kenya Army – Officers Ranks

Below is a list of commissioned officers’ ranks in the Kenya Army in order of superiority;

1. General
2. Lieutenant General
3. Major General
4. Brigadier
5. Colonel
6. Lieutenant Colonel
7. Major
8. Captain
9. Second Lieutenant

Read Also: Kenya Navy Ranks

KDF Officers Ranks and Insignias

Ranks in the Kenya Army – Other Ranks

Below is a list of Service Members’ ranks also known as other ranks in the Kenya Army in order of superiority;

1. Warrant Officer Class I
2. Warrant Officer Class II
3. Senior Sergeant
4. Sergeant
5. Corporal
6. Lance Corporal

Read Also: Public Servants Payslips Online

KDF Other Ranks and Insignias

Kenya Defence Force Contact Information