The Kenyan government has approved a Sh6.4 billion budget to expand and re-engineer National Youth Service (NYS) training infrastructure. This investment aims to increase capacity for up to 50,000 recruits simultaneously as part of a plan to raise annual recruitment to 100,000 by 2028. The funds will be used to construct new classrooms, barracks, kitchens, workshops, and administrative facilities across the country.
Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku announced the allocation during the passing-out parade of more than 15,000 recruits at the NYS Paramilitary Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County, on Friday, October 2, 2026. Ruku, representing President William Ruto, affirmed that the funding aligns with the presidential directive to expand NYS capacity. This move is expected to enhance the service's ability to provide training and equip youth with necessary skills.
The investment will fund various facilities to align physical capacity with the projected increase in trainees and staff. Discussions are underway to establish additional training centres in marginalised regions such as Marsabit and other northern counties. This initiative aims to broaden access for pastoralist and underserved communities, ensuring that more youth can benefit from the programme.
Over 15,000 graduates completed a six-month paramilitary programme, including 15 persons with disabilities, 11,527 servicemen, and 3,835 female servicewomen. These graduates have been equipped with skills that can be deployed in various development programmes, enhancing youth contribution to national transformation. The programme has been successful in providing opportunities for diverse groups.
Since 2022, NYS programmes have planted more than 71.8 million trees, and personnel have participated in climate-related projects such as roadworks, river restoration, and disaster-relief efforts. This demonstrates the significant role NYS plays in environmental conservation and national development. The programme's impact extends beyond training to tangible contributions to the country's well-being.
Public Service and Human Capital Development PS Jane Kere Imbunya highlighted that the training equips graduates with technical and vocational skills for deployment in development programmes. Currently, 28,824 NYS personnel are deployed nationwide in infrastructure, environmental, security, and community projects, while 15,364 remain in active training. This shows the programme's potential for sustainable impact.
The NYS Council has been instructed to coordinate with local communities and county governments to ensure sustainable implementation of new facilities. This collaborative approach aims to guarantee that the expanded capacity is utilised effectively and benefits the communities. Key initiatives are being put in place to support the programme's goals and ensure its success.
Key points
- The Kenyan government has allocated Sh6.4 billion to expand National Youth Service training capacity.
- The expansion aims to accommodate 50,000 recruits and boost annual intake to 100,000 by 2028.
- NYS programmes have contributed significantly to environmental conservation, planting over 71.8 million trees since 2022.
