Thousands of young people turned up across the 12 constituencies of Kiambu County to validate their details for the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) Project. Despite the heavy rains, the energy and determination were unmatched, with youth lining up ward by ward to confirm their eligibility for this life-changing business support.
This exercise is part of the nationwide physical validation announced by the Government, taking place in all 290 constituencies across Kenya.
The validation was led by Principal Secretaries, supported by elected leaders, NGAOs, and the NYOTA Implementation Team in a true Whole-of-Government approach. In Kiambu, the exercise was overseen by MSEA Board Director James Kaburu.
Youth were also given the chance to take the mandatory Entrepreneurship Aptitude Test (EAT) on-site. After the validation, the data will be cleaned up and the final list of successful beneficiaries will be contacted.
Under the NYOTA Business Support Component, the programme targets 110,000 youth enterprises across the country, with each beneficiary set to receive a start-up grant of KES 50,000. Beyond financial support, NYOTA focuses on equipping young entrepreneurs with the knowledge, skills, and connections needed to build sustainable businesses.
Participants will undergo comprehensive business training and mentorship, and receive guidance to strengthen their savings culture and market access. The initiative is being implemented by the Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA), which continues to play a central role in promoting youth enterprise development and job creation through structured business support interventions.
MSEA Board Director James Kaburu interacting with youth during the validation forum in Kikuyu Constituency
Implemented by the Government of Kenya with support from the World Bank, NYOTA targets more than 820,000 unemployed young people aged 18–29, including persons with disabilities (up to 35 years) and vulnerable groups across all 47 counties. NYOTA aims to create jobs, boost youth earnings, and promote a culture of saving among young Kenyans.
Pictorial highlights from the validation exercise in different constituencies of Kiambu County
