Kenya's National Youth Service (NYS) was formed by an Act of Parliament in 1964. It operates with different ranks, each having different roles and responsibilities. For those unfamiliar with the institution, its structure may seem complex. Therefore, understanding NYS ranks and salaries provides insight into its operations and framework.
The NYS operated under the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, and the Ministry of Devolution and Planning. Since 2015, it has been under the Ministry of Public Service Youth and Gender.
This government entity provides socioeconomic opportunities for young people with a mission of producing disciplined and empowered youth. For all the work the servicemen and women do, one wonders how much they part with monthly. So, how much does NYS pay in Kenya?
Like many government agencies, the NYS has a hierarchical structure that guides its operations. These ranks reflect the seniority, responsibilities, and experience of the workforce. NYS workers are placed in three categories: gazetted officers, inspectorate officers, and subordinate officers.
Each position attracts different pay depending on rank. Furthermore, the salaries are categorized into different pay groups, from PG1 to PG15. For instance, PG1 offers the lowest pay, with a salary ranging between Ksh 13,200 and Ksh 21,270 monthly.
PG2's salary lies between Ksh 17,490 and Ksh 33,390, and employees in the pay group PG3 earn between Ksh 23,700 and Ksh 35,520. Check out the full table below.
Pay Grade | Salary scale (KES) |
PG1 | 13,200 - 21,270 |
PG2 | 17,490 - 33,300 |
PG3 | 23,700 - 35,520 |
PG4 | 26,130 - 39,270 |
PG5 | 27,930 - 41,910 |
PG6 | 31,080 - 45,870 |
PG7 | 32,190 - 49,350 |
PG8 | 37,950 - 56,610 |
PG9 | 45,870 - 67,230 |
PG10 | 52,830 - 74,430 |
PG11 | 77,527 - 103,894 |
PG12 | 89,748 - 120,270 |
PG13 | 109,089 - 144,928 |
PG14 | 120,270 - 180,660 |
PG15 | 152,060 - 302,980 |
The stated salary scale was implemented in 2012 through the Ministry of State for Public Service. It is important to note that only NYS uniformed officers are paid under this pay structure. Additionally, they receive an incremental rise every July 1, the stipulated incremental date.
Additionally, a 2020 job posting signed by the former Director General NYS Matilda Sakwa detailed the pay of some officers as follows:
Rank | Pay Group | Salary scale (KES) |
Director | 13 | 119,730.00—166,780.00 |
Deputy Director | 11 | 85,110.00—119,730.00 |
Senior Assistant Director | 10 | 63,310.00—89,350.00 |
Assistant Director | 9 | 55,870.00—79,640.00 |
Senior Superintendent | 8 | 47,470.00—67,660.00 |
Superintendent | 7 | 41,240.00—59,310.00 |
Chief Inspector | 6 | 40,030.00—55,870.00 |
The salary of the NYS Director General is not publicized. It is the most senior position and likely in pay group 15. This means an occupant in this position earns between KES 152,060 and 302,980 monthly.
Likewise, NYS private officers' salaries remain undisclosed. However, they are the most junior workers and likely belong to the lowest job group, meaning they get a monthly salary of between Ksh 13,200 and Ksh 21,270.
NYS ranks and salaries are directly related. The highest-ranking officials earn the highest pay, and their subordinates' salaries depend on their pay grade. That said, NYS workers can climb the ranks as they gain experience and skills and earn more.
Tuko.co.ke published an article sharing job groups in Kenya, detailing the pay structure, including the salaries and allowances of each group. The Salaries Remuneration Commission (SRC) is responsible for reviewing and setting the pay for public servants. How many groups are there, and how much do people in these groups earn? Read the article to find out.
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NYS 2024 Cohort during their 88th passing-out parade.
NYS rehearsal before the recruits' pass-out parade.
National Youth Service (NYS) in Kenya: Salary, Allowances, Ranks