President Ruto launches the NYOTA programme to support youth entrepreneurship. Beneficiaries to receive KSh 50,000 in two phases, starting with KSh 25,000.
President William Ruto has launched the NYOTA Youth Business Support Programme in Mumias, Kakamega County, marking a new national effort to help young Kenyans start and grow small enterprises.
The initiative will provide beneficiaries with KSh 50,000 in business grants, released in two instalments, with KSh 25,000 issued upfront to youth groups and individual entrepreneurs.
Speaking during the launch on Friday, President Ruto said the programme is part of his administration’s mission to empower young people to create sustainable livelihoods.
“Kenyan youth are not seeking handouts, they are asking for opportunities,” he said.
“Through NYOTA, we are providing the capital and confidence they need to build businesses that will transform lives and communities.”
The President noted that the programme aligns with other empowerment initiatives such as the Hustler Fund, Women Enterprise Fund, and Youth Enterprise Development Fund.
Under NYOTA, priority will be given to ventures in: Agribusiness, Manufacturing Services Creative economy
Ruto stressed that discipline, innovation, and accountability will be vital in ensuring the initiative’s success.
Cooperatives and MSME Development Cabinet Secretary Simon Chelugui said the programme will be rolled out in phases across all 47 counties, targeting hundreds of thousands of young people.
Beneficiaries will receive the second instalment after verification of progress, supported by digital monitoring systems to ensure transparency.
Local leaders praised the programme as a timely intervention to tackle unemployment and stimulate regional economic recovery.
Mumias East MP Peter Salasya said the initiative restores hope among youth:
“This programme is giving our youth genuine hope and practical support, it’s exactly what we’ve been calling for.”
President Ruto urged young people to use the funds wisely, noting that their actions will define the country’s development path.
“Kenya’s future rests in the hands of disciplined, innovative, and productive youth,” he said.
