Following the successful disbursement of the first tranche of business start-up capital to beneficiaries under the NYOTA Business Support intervention, the Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA) has now transitioned into the second phase of Business Development Services (BDS) training. This phase focuses on strengthening the capacity of young entrepreneurs through structured business skills training, mentorship, and continuous support, ensuring that the capital invested translates into sustainable, growth-oriented enterprises.
The nationwide training forms a core component of the NYOTA Project’s business support intervention, which integrates enterprise financing with practical skills development. Across all 47 counties, beneficiaries have undergone intensive training covering key areas such as financial management, business planning, market access, and enterprise sustainability. This approach to a more holistic model of enterprise development.
In Kirinyaga County, Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and MSME Development, Hon. Dr. Wycliffe Oparanya, led a high-level monitoring visit to assess the progress of the Business Skills Training in Mwea Constituency. He was accompanied by MSEA Board Director Mr. George Kihonge and Director General/CEO Mr. Henry Rithaa.
CS Wycliffe Oparanya, addresses NYOTA beneficiaries in Mwea, Kirinyaga County.
During the visit, the Cabinet Secretary commended the progress made so far, noting that a significant number of beneficiaries have already established businesses following the initial capital disbursement and mentorship phase. This, he observed, is a clear indication that the NYOTA model is yielding tangible results.
He further underscored the importance of the ongoing training in addressing critical business skills gaps, particularly in financial literacy and enterprise management. As beneficiaries prepare for the next phase of support, including the second tranche of business capital, the CS emphasized that full participation in the training programme remains mandatory, as it directly influences eligibility for continued support under the project.
MSEA DG, Mr. Henry Rithaa, addresses NYOTA Business support beneficiaries.
MSEA Director General Mr. Henry Rithaa echoed these sentiments, urging beneficiaries to utilize the capital provided prudently and to apply the knowledge gained through training to build resilient, scalable businesses capable of creating employment and contributing to local economies.
Beyond the national leadership oversight, MSEA Board Directors have also been actively engaged on the ground across various counties, reinforcing governance, accountability, and beneficiary support through direct interaction and monitoring.
Board Directors Mr. Timothy Biwott and Mr. Adams Sospeter visited BDS classroom training centres, where they participated in sessions, interacted with trainees, and gained firsthand insight into the learning experience. Their engagements focused on understanding the realities faced by young entrepreneurs, including business challenges and growth aspirations, while encouraging them to identify market opportunities for enhanced profitability.
Board Director Timothy Biwott, interacts with beneficiaries in Busia County.
In Embu County, Board Director Mr. George Mbogo engaged with both beneficiaries and trainers, emphasizing the importance of translating acquired knowledge into practical business strategies that can unlock sustainable growth.
Similarly, Board Director Ms. Margaret Gitonga visited training sessions and encouraged beneficiaries to adopt a strong business mindset, highlighting the role of discipline, focus, and intentionality in building successful enterprises.
MSEA Board Directors interact with NYOTA Beneficiaries.
Board Director Ms. Catherine Kithinji reinforced the value of the BDS component, noting its critical role in improving enterprise management, enhancing market readiness, and driving long-term sustainability. She urged beneficiaries to remain innovative and resilient as they grow their businesses.
In Mwea Constituency, Board Director Mr. John Kionge held an interactive session with beneficiaries at Ngurubani Primary School, creating a platform for open dialogue. Beneficiaries shared their progress, lessons from mentorship, and how they are applying newly acquired skills to strengthen their enterprises. The session also revealed strong enthusiasm among participants, particularly regarding the anticipated second tranche of funding, which many view as key to expanding and stabilizing their businesses.
These coordinated monitoring efforts by the leadership underscore a strong commitment to ensuring effective implementation, accountability, and impact of the NYOTA Project. By maintaining close engagement with beneficiaries, the Authority is able to continuously refine project delivery while fostering a supportive ecosystem for youth-led enterprises.
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