President William Ruto has announced that disbursement under the World Bank-supported NYOTA Programme will begin on November 4 aimed at targeting young Kenyans looking for funds for business start-ups, technical training, and innovation.
In addressing Mashujaa Day events in Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County on Monday, President Ruto disclosed the government, along with the World Bank, has allocated Ksh20 billion for youths’ projects throughout the country.
“This will cater to 800,000 youths under several categories whether enterprise development, technical training, or innovation support,” he clarified.
Verification Set to Begin October 24
The President also disclosed that there will be a countrywide verification exercise beginning this Friday, October 24, in all the 290 constituencies, to ensure that only deserving applicants enjoy the NYOTA Programme.
“We shall start with the business group. The verification will facilitate young people to access funds they need to establish businesses and contribute to nurturing the country,” stated Ruto.
He urged Members of Parliament, County Assembly members, and other local leaders to actively engage in the exercise to allow transparency and fairness in the selection process.
Delayed Start due to National Mourning
The verification exercise was scheduled to start on October 17, but was postponed following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on October 15, when the country went into national mourning.
According to President Ruto, the NYOTA Programme will support youth in various aspects:
90,000 youths will receive technical and vocational education to equip them with practical, employable skills.
The government will also recognize existing learning, granting formal certification for those who have acquired skills informally or as apprentices.
At least 100,000 young entrepreneurs will receive Ksh50,000 grants each to start or grow small enterprises.
President Ruto emphasized that the NYOTA Programme also falls under the government’s broader agenda to address youth unemployment and drive economic independence for the youth.
“This programme is about giving our young people a real opportunity to build something meaningful. I encourage all beneficiaries to utilize the opportunity to the best for their own growth and for the country’s sake,” he said.
A sensitisation campaign already exists for the NYOTA Programme in various regions, with young people sitting in huge numbers at outreach forums to hear more about how they can apply and qualify.
