By Faith Jebotip
Public Service and Special Programmes Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has ordered the immediate dismissal of three National Youth Service (NYS) managers over the issuance of redundancy letters, citing governance concerns and failure to adhere to public service principles.
Speaking on Thursday during the official handover ceremony of the NYS Council Chair at the NYS headquarters in Ruaraka, CS Ruku emphasized the importance of integrity, accountability, and professionalism in public service.
“Articles 10 and 232 of the Constitution are clear on the need for a public service rooted in integrity, accountability, and professionalism,” Ruku stated. “Public officers must ensure efficient and effective use of resources, uphold transparency, and serve all Kenyans fairly and responsively.”
He added that NYS, as a taxpayer-funded agency, must be safeguarded from exploitation by individuals seeking personal gain. The three managers were sent home immediately following what the CS described as improper issuance of redundancy notices.
“We have individuals who believe they can take advantage of NYS, but we must protect and guard it as a public institution. Resources must be managed appropriately and efficiently to achieve the intended goals,” Ruku warned.
In a move aimed at bolstering the institution's financial sustainability, CS Ruku urged the NYS Council to fast-track commercialisation efforts. He said that enhancing income-generating activities within NYS will support the government’s ambition to recruit and train at least 100,000 youth annually by 2027.
“As a Ministry, we will fully support commercialisation efforts. This move will significantly increase the number of young people we train each year,” he said.
The Cabinet Secretary reaffirmed President William Ruto’s directive to protect public funds, warning that individuals involved in mismanagement have no place within NYS operations.
Looking ahead, Ruku announced plans to propose amendments to the NYS Act to allow greater collaboration between NYS and the Ministry of Sports. The aim is to integrate talented youth who may not join NYS formally but could benefit from its infrastructure and programs.
“Moving forward, we will realign NYS to establish memoranda of understanding between the Ministry of Public Service and the Ministry of Sports. This will allow us to leverage existing facilities and train other deserving young Kenyans,” he stated.
The event also marked a leadership transition at the NYS Council. Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Njuki Mwaniki officially handed over the chairmanship to Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Adan Mulata, who takes over after completing Mwaniki’s two terms of service.
The leadership shake-up, alongside Ruku's strong stance on accountability, signals a new chapter for NYS as the government seeks to strengthen the institution’s role in youth empowerment and national development.
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