NAIROBI, Kenya — President William Ruto has overseen the disbursement of start-up capital to 5,901 youth from Machakos, Makueni, and Kitui counties under the government’s NYOTA Programme, dismissing concerns that the initiative is being politicized.
The programme seeks to empower young entrepreneurs to transform their livelihoods through financial support, training, and mentorship.
Each beneficiary receives Sh 50,000 in two phases:
- Sh 22,000 deposited into Pochi la Biashara
- Sh 3,000 credited to the NSSF Haba na Haba savings account
- Sh 25,000 disbursed in the second phase
Since the programme’s inception, Sh 1.2 billion has been disbursed to 48,376 youth in 26 counties, with a nationwide rollout ongoing.
The Sh 20 billion NYOTA Programme aims to reach 820,000 youth over five years, offering a comprehensive package that includes capital, training, mentorship, and certification.
Key targets under the programme include:
- Funding 110,000 youth-led businesses
- Placing 90,000 youth in paid work experience
- Certifying 20,000 youth through Recognition of Prior Learning
- Matching savings for 190,000 young savers
- Preparing 600,000 youth for AGPO opportunities
President Ruto emphasized that the initiative is designed to boost entrepreneurship and self-reliance among Kenya’s youth, while dismissing claims of political influence.
“The NYOTA Programme is about empowering our youth with the tools, skills, and capital to succeed. This is not a political exercise; it is a national investment in the future of Kenya,” President Ruto said during the disbursement ceremony.
The initiative also integrates financial literacy and savings culture, as the NSSF Haba na Haba account enables youth to accumulate long-term savings, which are further incentivized through matched contributions.
By combining capital injection with training and mentorship, the programme aims to ensure that beneficiaries have the skills and networks to sustain their enterprises beyond initial funding.
The government expects that, upon full implementation, the NYOTA Programme will not only create viable businesses but also expand youth participation in the economy, strengthen financial inclusion, and contribute to national socio-economic growth.
