The government has announced a nationwide recruitment of 10,000 new police officers in its efforts to enhance national security.
Speaking on Thursday during the National Youth Service (NYS) recruits’ passing-out parade in Gilgil, President William Ruto said the exercise will take place in September 2025.
The Head of State added that NYS graduates will be given first priority in the recruitment drive, with 4,000 out of the available 10,000 slots reserved for NYS graduates.
“I have already given instructions to the Ministry of Interior that next month (September), when we recruit 10,000 police officers, 4,000 of them must come from the National Youth Service. Many more of you will venture into the private enterprise powered by Nyota, Hustler Fund and other initiatives that are turning ideas into thriving businesses,” said Ruto.
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Ruto further said that NYS graduates will also be given priority in other disciplined services, including the Kenya Defence Forces, and the affordable housing schemes being implemented by the government.
“From this day, go forward in confidence, serve with pride, innovate with boldness, and strive with conviction,” said Ruto.
The Police recruitment in Kenya has been suspended since March 2022 due to budgetary constraints.
On Sunday August 10, 2025, Inspector General of police Douglas Kanja said that the upcoming recruitment exercise will help address a shortage of 5,000 officers and move the service closer to the United Nations’ recommended police-to-population ratio of 1:450.
