NYOTA Project beneficiaries from Turkana, West Pokot, Uasin Gishu, Trans-Nzoia, Elgeyo Marakwet, and Nandi counties converged in Eldoret for the Business Capital Disbursement, a key intervention under the NYOTA Project designed to provide structured business support to young entrepreneurs and strengthen Kenya’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Through the NYOTA Project, each beneficiary received KSh 22,000 to start or expand their businesses, alongside KSh 3,000 deposited into structured savings accounts under the National Social Security Fund’s (NSSF) Haba na Haba scheme. By pairing financial support with mandatory business skills training and ongoing mentorship, the Government ensures that the capital provided is effectively invested, promoting sustainable, accountable, and growth-oriented enterprises.
Speaking directly to the youth, His Excellency, Dr. William Ruto, EGH, President of the Republic of Kenya, emphasized that access to capital and skills alone is not enough. Determination, discipline, and resilience remain key to building businesses that endure. The Government’s approach through NYOTA is designed not just to provide immediate financial assistance but to cultivate a generation of young entrepreneurs capable of creating jobs, expanding economic opportunities, and contributing to national growth.
The disbursement forum also featured a candid fireside conversation moderated by PS Susan Mang’eni, where youth shared their experiences, challenges, and aspirations. Governors attending the session reaffirmed their commitment to supporting NYOTA beneficiaries by waiving business licence fees, further lowering barriers to enterprise development. These interactions ensure that the programme remains responsive to the real needs of young entrepreneurs and reinforces a culture of inclusion and practical support.
By disbursing over KSh 200 million in the North Rift region, the Government is advancing its broader strategic objectives: promoting youth employment and laying the foundation for long-term economic growth. Beyond immediate capital injection, the NYOTA Project provides multiple pathways for skills development, including Recognition of Prior Learning for 20,000 youth, six-month on-the-job training under master craftsmen for 90,000 youth, and training 600,000 youth, women, and persons with disabilities to access government procurement opportunities.
