Nairobi, Kenya – A new report from the Public Service Commission (PSC) reveals significant underrepresentation of young Kenyans in state jobs, highlighting a demographic skew towards older employees in ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs).
According to the report, less than 3% of jobs in MDAs are held by Kenyans under the age of 25. This figure translates to only 1,730 out of a total of 74,877 civil service positions. In stark contrast, the report shows that a substantial number of these jobs are occupied by older individuals, with 41,689 positions held by Kenyans over the age of 41.
The data paints a concerning picture of the employment landscape for young people in Kenya, particularly for the Generation Z cohort. The PSC report highlights that the highest unemployment rates are found among those aged 20-24, an age group that is struggling to break into the formal employment sector. This situation underscores the challenges faced by young Kenyans in securing stable and sustainable employment in the public sector.
A closer look at the age distribution within the civil service reveals that Kenyans aged 36-40 hold the most jobs, with 12,136 positions, accounting for 16.21% of the total. This is closely followed by those aged 41-45, who hold 15.49% of the positions, equivalent to 11,595 jobs. The data further shows that over one-quarter of state jobs, totaling 19,257 positions, are held by individuals over the age of 51.
This demographic distribution raises several concerns about the future of the civil service in Kenya. The underrepresentation of young people in these roles suggests a potential gap in the pipeline for future leadership and innovation within the public sector. Additionally, the high number of jobs held by older employees may indicate a slower rate of turnover and promotion, potentially stymying opportunities for younger workers.
The PSC’s findings call for urgent policy interventions to address these disparities. Experts suggest that increasing internship and apprenticeship programs within MDAs could provide more entry points for young Kenyans into the public service. Additionally, there is a need for targeted recruitment drives aimed at younger demographics to balance the age distribution within the civil service.
Youth advocacy groups have been vocal about the need for the government to create more opportunities for young people. “The data from the PSC is a wake-up call. It is clear that we need more inclusive policies that provide a level playing field for the youth to access these jobs,” said Josephine Oduor, a youth employment advocate. “We are calling on the government to prioritize youth employment and create a conducive environment for young people to thrive in the public sector.”
The government, for its part, has acknowledged the challenges faced by young people in the job market and has pledged to implement measures to address these issues. The Ministry of Public Service, Youth and Gender Affairs has indicated plans to introduce more youth-friendly employment policies and to enhance support for young entrepreneurs.
As Kenya continues to grapple with high unemployment rates among its youth, the findings of the PSC report underscore the need for a concerted effort to create more equitable employment opportunities within the public sector. Ensuring that young Kenyans have a fair chance to contribute to the nation’s development is not only a matter of justice but also a crucial step towards building a more dynamic and resilient civil service for the future.
