Machakos: The second cohort of 5,901 youths from the Lower Eastern region of Machakos, Makueni, and Kitui have received their first installment of the National Youths Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) startup capital amounting to Sh22,000. This initiative aims to assist them in starting businesses and empowering themselves.
According to Kenya News Agency, President William Rutto oversaw the disbursement at Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos. He announced that a total of Sh147.5 million has been allocated to the Machakos, Makueni, and Kitui regions, targeting 70-80 youths from every ward. The president emphasized that the NYOTA selection process was conducted transparently and fairly, devoid of corruption or brokers. He assured that any attempts to extort money from the youths would be addressed and promised that all eligible youths would be given an opportunity to participate.
The president highlighted that the program does not require candidates to have connections with prominent individuals to qualify for the NYOTA funds. It is designed to promote the Bottom-Up Transformative Agenda (BETA), which focuses on empowering youths through training and mentorship, particularly those at the grassroots level. Additionally, he mentioned that the government has digitized 23,000 services to facilitate easy access for citizens without barriers and intermediaries as a measure to combat corruption.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki emphasized that the funds are intended for small businesses and to support individuals with minimal or no education, embodying the true essence of BETA, which aims to propel Kenya towards becoming a first-world economy. He addressed critics who claim the funds are insufficient, noting that it’s not a loan but a starting point for entrepreneurship. The initiative, he added, is part of creating jobs and opportunities for young Kenyans to contribute to transforming the country through a knowledge-led, entrepreneur-driven economy.
Wycliffe Oparanya, Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Cooperatives and Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), encouraged the youth to utilize the funds effectively to establish profitable businesses and improve their lives. Principal Secretary for MSMEs, Susan Mangeni, informed beneficiaries of an upcoming one-month training and mentorship program designed to enhance their business management skills. She affirmed the government’s commitment to supporting them through challenges, envisioning them as future millionaires and industrialists.
The NYOTA Project is a World Bank-financed initiative by the Government of Kenya aimed at enhancing youth employability, enterprise development, and youth savings. It targets unemployed youth aged 18-29 years and extends up to 35 years for persons with disabilities. The launch event was attended by various government officials, including Cabinet Secretaries Salim Mvurya, Dr. Alfred Mutua, and several Members of Parliament.
