H.E. Dr. William Ruto, CGH, President of the Republic of Kenya, presided over the NYOTA Business Start-Up Capital Disbursement Ceremony at Archer’s Post, Samburu County, bringing together youth beneficiaries from Samburu, Isiolo, Marsabit, and Laikipia counties.
The event marked a major milestone in the Government’s efforts to expand youth enterprise development and economic inclusion in northern Kenya, with over 4,000 young entrepreneurs set to receive business start-up capital under the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) Project.
MSEA CEO Mr. Henry Rithaa, and the Board Chairman welcome the Head of State, Dr. William Ruto, to Archers Post, Samburu County.
The President was accompanied by H.E. Prof. Kithure Kindiki, Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya, alongside national and county leaders. Speaking during the ceremony, President Ruto reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to moving the country to the next level through deliberate investments in young people and job creation, noting that youth empowerment remains central to Kenya’s development agenda.
He emphasized that the NYOTA Project is a key pathway for youth employment and enterprise development, particularly in regions that have historically faced limited access to capital and economic opportunities.
The Head of State highlighted ongoing reforms in the education and skills development sector, noting that Kenya is drawing lessons from global models such as South Korea and Singapore to better align training with labour market needs. These reforms are aimed at ensuring young people acquire market-relevant skills that translate into sustainable employment and enterprise.
President Ruto further outlined major public investments that are creating jobs for young people, including the Affordable Housing Programme, which is currently engaging over 5,000 youth in employment opportunities across the country.
On labour market access, he pointed to the National Employment Authority (NEA) Portal as a critical platform for linking young people to job opportunities, while also highlighting the rapid expansion of digital jobs, with over 300,000 young people currently engaged in the digital economy.
Reaffirming the integrity of the programme, the President emphasized that NYOTA is implemented without patronage, and is firmly anchored on transparency, accountability, and fairness, ensuring that deserving youth across all regions benefit from government support.
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