The Micro and Small Enterprises Authority, in collaboration with the Office of the Member of Parliament for Keiyo North, Hon. Adams Kipsanai Korir today held a vibrant grassroots sensitization and empowerment forum in Keiyo North Constituency, Elgeyo Marakwet County.The event, which brought together over 1,000 youth, is part of MSEA’s ongoing Mashinani Outreach Programme, aimed at raising awareness of government-backed enterprise development initiatives, notably the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) and Kenya Jobs and Economic Transformation (KJET) projects.
In his address, Hon. Kipsanai commended the youth for turning up in large numbers and urged them to take full advantage of the NYOTA Cycle 1 application window, which closes on 30th April 2025. He emphasized that the NYOTA grant is not a loan and encouraged the youth to invest it wisely in sustainable businesses. He also advised them to remain resilient in their entrepreneurial journeys, urging innovation and perseverance even when challenges arise.
Member of Parliament for Keiyo North, Hon. Adams Kipsanai Korir addressing the youth during the sensitization forum.
Representing MSEA CEO Mr. Henry Rithaa, Mr. Evans Bullut, Project Coordinator for KJET, outlined the project’s structure which is tailored to support Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) through targeted training, co-investment in essential machinery, and Business Development Services (BDS) to enhance competitiveness along various value chains.
Mr. Evans Bullut, KJET Project Lead Coordinator giving his remarks during the sensitization
Ms. Christine Wairimu, NYOTA Program Officer, sensitized attendees on the comprehensive empowerment package under NYOTA. This includes business development training, startup capital, mentorship, and market access linkages. She also actively walked the youth through the application process, ensuring that all eligible participants completed their submissions during the forum.
Ms. Christine Wairimu, NYOTA Program Officer, sensitizing the youth on the comprehensive empowerment package under NYOTA.
CPA Alton Kogo, MSEA’s North Rift Regional Head, elaborated on the Authority’s mandate, emphasizing the importance of formalization. He urged the youth to form and register associations through MSEA to unlock a broader range of benefits both within the Authority and across other government initiatives.
CPA Alton Kogo, MSEA’s North Rift Regional Head, addressing the youth during the sensitization forum.
MSEA County Lead for Elgeyo Marakwet, Ms. Judy Cheburet, encouraged the youth to visit the MSEA office to explore ongoing and upcoming opportunities, and learn how they can actively participate and benefit from various programs.
MSEA County Lead for Elgeyo Marakwet, Ms. Judy Cheburet addressing the youth during the sensitization forum.
A key highlight of the event was the distribution of Common User Machines to local MSEs, including sewing and knitting machines, aimed at boosting productivity and promoting value addition within the community.
MSEA remains committed to working hand-in-hand with partners and stakeholders to build the capacity of MSEs, ensuring that no one is left behind in the journey toward inclusive economic transformation.
Moments captured during the common user machine distribution
