The Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Human Capital Development and Special Programmes, Geoffrey Ruku, has called on senior managers at the National Youth Service (NYS) to ensure prudent and accountable use of public resources, warning that those unwilling to uphold principles of good governance and service delivery should step aside.
Speaking during the handover ceremony of the NYS Council Chair at the NYS headquarters in Ruaraka, Ruku emphasized the need for strict adherence to Articles 10 and 232 of the Constitution, which outline the national values and principles of governance and public service.
“Articles 10 and 232 are clear on the need for a public service rooted in good governance, integrity, accountability, and professionalism,” said the CS.
“Public officers must ensure efficient and effective use of resources, uphold transparency, and serve all Kenyans fairly and responsively.”
He further stressed that the Constitution calls for inclusiveness, equity, sustainable development, and citizen participation, values that must underpin all aspects of public service delivery.
“We have individuals who believe they can take advantage of NYS, but we must protect and guard it as a public institution funded by taxpayers’ money,” he warned.
“Resources must be managed appropriately and efficiently to achieve the intended goals.”
Ruku also urged the NYS Council to fast-track the commercialization of the institution, noting that this would enhance its financial sustainability and support the proposed annual recruitment of 100,000 youths by 2027.
“As a Ministry, we will fully support commercialization efforts. This move will significantly increase the number of young people we train each year,” he added.
The Cabinet Secretary reiterated that President William Ruto has issued firm directives on the future of NYS, warning that anyone found misusing allocated resources has no place in the institution.
Ruku, who also received the ceremonial salute from NYS personnel, announced plans to propose amendments to the NYS Act through the National Assembly.
The goal, he said, is to open opportunities for collaboration with the Ministry of Sports and other departments to nurture talented youth who may not be directly recruited into NYS.
“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 revealed.
The event marked the official handover of the NYS Council Chair, with Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Njuki Mwaniki passing the baton to Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Adan Mulata after serving two terms at the helm of the institution.
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