President William Ruto is today set to roll out the NYOTA Project (National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement) programme in Samburu County as part of the government’s broader agenda to empower young people and stimulate grassroots economic growth.
The launch will be attended by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, senior government officials and area lawmakers.
NYOTA is designed to provide seed capital to young entrepreneurs, enabling them to start or expand small businesses while creating employment opportunities at the community level.
On Monday, the government disbursed Sh173.2 million to youth-led startups in Central Kenya under the programme. The funding targets 6,982 entrepreneurs across Nyeri, Murang’a, Nyandarua and Kirinyaga counties under the five-year initiative supported by the World Bank.
The funds were handed over during an event held at the Kabiru-ini ASK Grounds in Nyeri, which was attended by President Ruto.
Speaking during the event, the President said the NYOTA programme is anchored on merit and inclusivity, dismissing claims that it could be used as a tool for political mobilisation.
“This programme is about empowering young people based on their ideas and commitment, not their political affiliations,” Ruto said.
The NYOTA initiative has already been rolled out in Kakamega, Eldoret and Nakuru counties, with further disbursements planned for Meru, Machakos, Nairobi, the Coast and Nyanza regions.
