President Ruto mandates basic firearms training for NYS officers.

President William Ruto has mandated that National Youth Service (NYS) recruits undergo basic firearms training as part of their mandatory paramilitary program, equipping them to defend the nation if necessary. Speaking at the 88th National Youth Service Recruits Pass-Out Parade in Gilgil on Monday, Ruto reaffirmed his government's commitment to integrating a significant number of servicemen and women into the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and securing other employment opportunities for NYS graduates.

"The NYS remains crucial to our efforts in enhancing public service delivery and strengthening national security," Ruto stated. He highlighted that out of the 790 officers recently recruited by the Kenya Wildlife Service, 447 were former NYS members.

"This represents a 56% fulfillment of my directive that all security agencies prioritize NYS graduates due to their proven discipline, capability, and paramilitary training," Ruto added.

The President further instructed relevant ministries, particularly those of Interior and Defence, to ensure that the NYS paramilitary training includes a basic firearms course, ensuring that recruits are prepared to protect the country when required.