President William Ruto speaking during the NYS passing-out parade in Nakuru on August 28, 2025 / PCSPresident William Ruto has announced Sh50,000 startup capital for 100,000 youth across every Kenyan ward.
The President said the move is in a bid to help create employment for youths across the country.
Ruto said the first batch of 54,000 youths have been identified and will receive the funds and training from September.
“Across every ward in Kenya, 100,000 young people will each receive Sh50,000 startup capital. Next month, the first batch of 54,000 men and women will receive these funds and begin their training,” the President said.
The President spoke on Thursday during the National Youth Service recruits passing-out parade, at the NYS Paramilitary Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County.
The NYS recruits passing-out parade saw over 18,000 recruits graduate.
Ruto said the government will ensure more young Kenyans benefit from projects as it expands recruitment into the NYS from the current 20,000 to 100,000 by the year 2028.
This will be the largest expansion in its history.
“We are undertaking far-reaching reforms to transform the National Youth Service (NYS) into a dynamic and productive institution; one that is truly fit for purpose, and capable of equipping our young people with market-relevant skills and qualifications that prepare them for the opportunities of the modern job market,” the President said.
“Through structured training with industry partners, NYS
graduates will be able to advance into higher learning, join our disciplined
services to defend peace and security, or venture into enterprise.”
This year’s parade marks yet another significant milestone for the institution as it continues its transformation journey towards becoming a regional centre of excellence in training and youth empowerment.
The recruits are graduating after six months of intensive training, having joined the academy in February this year.
The event featured precision drills, parades, and demonstrations.
Over the years, NYS has expanded its mandate beyond paramilitary training to include technical, vocational, and entrepreneurial skills development, positioning young people to contribute meaningfully to national development.
