Nairobi: The government has launched an initiative to establish 28 digital hubs across various sub-counties in the Nairobi region, aiming to enhance digital skills among the youth to improve their employability and entrepreneurial prospects. Nairobi Regional Commissioner, Gilbert Kitiyo, announced that 11 of these hubs are currently operational, with 17 more in the process of being completed.
According to Kenya News Agency, Commissioner Kitiyo, speaking at a Media Breakfast meeting at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, emphasized the role of these hubs in providing a conducive learning and mentorship environment to promote digital entrepreneurship. Kitiyo encouraged the youth to utilize these facilities, which are equipped with free internet and computers, to improve their livelihoods.
In discussing youth empowerment, Kitiyo highlighted the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) Fund project, a significant government initiative supported by the World Bank. Over a five-year period, NYOTA is expected to create employment opportunities, boost income generation, and encourage savings among the youth.
The government has also introduced the NYOTA Business Support Program, a national initiative offering Sh50,000 non-refundable grants to young people to start or expand their businesses. Kitiyo noted that eligibility for the Fund extends to individuals aged 18-29 years, with allowances for persons with disabilities up to the age of 35 years.
Eligible participants should have attained a Form Four level of education or below and be unemployed, underemployed, or in low-tier employment. Additionally, Kitiyo provided updates on the Climate Worx Program, which has so far employed 54,576 youths across two cohorts, enabling them to support their families.
