President Ruto: Maraga team to also review NYS recruits' welfare

President William Ruto.[Kipsang Joseph, Standard]

President William Ruto on Friday, March 3 extended by two months the term of the task force set up to review the welfare of police officers countrywide.

The Head of State, who spoke during the National Youth Service (NYS) passing out parade in Gilgil, Nakuru County, said the extension will allow the task force to also review the welfare of NYS recruits.

The 20-member task force chaired by former Chief Justice David Maraga was set up on December 21, 2022.

Its 90-day term was to end on March 21. However, following the president's pronouncement that the team's mandate be extended by another 60 days, then the Maraga task force has until May 21, 2023 to come up with recommendations.

"I'd love to see the terms of employment and service of NYS recruits also improved," said President Ruto.

The Maraga task force has since gone across the country to seek Kenyans' feedback.

During his speech in Gilgil on Friday, the president said he hopes to see an increased intake of NYS recruits every year.

"We want to enhance annual intake from 10,000 to 20,000 youths, while at the same time broadening the pipeline of qualified youths into public and private sector as well as self-employment," he said.

Ruto said the recruits would take up different roles in nation-building.

"The service should be facilitated by the Ministry of Water, Sanitation and Irrigation to engage in the construction of at least 100 dams and water pans annually. This will support the government agenda and enhance NYS' financial self-reliance," said President Ruto.