For the first time, thousands of Kenyan youth got an exclusive pass to State House — not for a protest, but for a celebration of opportunity.
President William Ruto hosted the event under the Nairobi County Empowerment Programme, part of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), bringing together young people from across the city to benefit from government-supported projects.
From beauty kits for aspiring entrepreneurs, sewing machines for tailors, cement mixers for construction crews, to water purification systems, motorcycles, and other business tools, the giveaways were designed to kick-start income-generating ventures.
Officials said the initiative will be rolled out in all 1,450 wards nationwide, providing equipment and training to thousands of youth.
The atmosphere at State House was more festival than formality, with music, networking, and a sense of possibility. For many Gen Z attendees, it was a rare chance to interact with the President and leave not just inspired, but equipped to start or grow a business.
As one participant put it, “This wasn’t just a party — it was the start of our hustle.”
