NYS Postpones Recruitment in Nairobi and Select Counties

The National Youth Service (NYS) has postponed the recruitment of volunteer servicemen and women in Nairobi and several counties.

In a statement dated Thursday, March 19, 2026, the agency said the postponement follows a government directive declaring Friday, March 20, 2026, a public holiday in observance of a religious occasion.

The notice, issued by the NYS Commandant General, indicated that all recruitment activities initially scheduled for Friday will now take place on Saturday, March 21, 2026.

“All prospective candidates are advised to take note of the change and present themselves at their respective recruitment centres on the revised date,” the statement read.

NYS Postpones Recruitment of Volunteer Servicemen and Women

The service also urged applicants to comply with the updated schedule and thanked the public for their understanding and continued commitment to national service.

Also Read: Govt Announces Major Pay Rise for Police, Prison Warders & NYS

Besides Nairobi, other counties that have been affected by the postponement of the exercise include Baringo, Bomet, Bungoma, Busia, Embu, Elgeyo Marakwet, Garissa, Homa Bay, Kajiado, Kakamega, Kericho, Kiambu, Kilifi, Kirinyaga, Kisii, Kisumu, Kitui, Kwale, Samburu, Laikipia, Machakos, Mandera, Marsabit, Meru, Migori, Mombasa, Murang’a, Nakuru, Nandi, Narok, Nyamira, Nyandarua, Nyeri, Siaya, Tana River, Tharaka Nithi, Trans-Nzoia, Turkana, Uasin Gishu, Vihiga, Wajir, and West Pokot.

The NYS recruitment of servicemen and women began on Monday, March 16, and is expected to conclude on Saturday, March 21, 2026.

Requirements for NYS Volunteer Program

According to NYS, all applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be a Kenyan citizen and a resident of the respective sub-county of recruitment.
Be aged between 18 and 24 years.
Have attained a minimum mean grade of D (Plain) in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE).
Present the original National Identity Card and academic certificates, and submit one set of photocopies at the recruitment center.
Possess a valid police clearance certificate (Certificate of Good Conduct).

Also Read: NYS Opens Nationwide Recruitment for Volunteers, Announces Dates – How to Apply

Be willing to undergo a medical examination during and after the recruitment exercise.
Be prepared to undergo Basic Paramilitary Training.
Be ready to offer voluntary service to the nation in any part of Kenya.
Successful candidates will report to the NYS Paramilitary Academy in Gilgil or the NYS Technical Training Institute (NYSTTI) in Naivasha on the dates and times specified in their respective calling letters.

Special Considerations

The Service highlighted that orphans meeting the requirements will be given special consideration upon presentation of valid documentary proof, such as parents’ death certificates or burial permits.

Persons with disabilities are encouraged to participate, provided they can withstand the prescribed physical training. Applicants with demonstrated sports skills or talents will have an added advantage.

Follow our WhatsApp channel for instant news updates