President William Ruto on Thursday officially launched the second phase of the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) Project, opening a new chapter in youth enterprise development in the country. The initiative will see KSh 235,575,000 (US$1.8 million) disbursed as startup capital to thousands of young entrepreneurs across six counties in the North Rift.
At the Eldoret event, 9,423 young Kenyans from Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, Nandi, Trans‑Nzoia, Turkana and West Pokot received KSh 25,000 each. Of this, KSh 22,000 went directly into their Pochi La Biashara mobile wallets for business use, while KSh 3,000 was credited to their NSSF Haba Na Haba savings accounts, a move designed to encourage a culture of saving among the young entrepreneurs.
A Focus on Opportunity and Fairness
Speaking at the launch, President Ruto said the NYOTA Project sets a benchmark for transparency and inclusivity. “This initiative gives every young Kenyan an equal chance through a fully digitised process,” he said. He noted that the programme is part of the government’s broader agenda to address youth unemployment and strengthen enterprise development.
The project, backed by the World Bank, combines financial support with business training, mentorship and savings support. Officials say this combination is intended to help beneficiaries build businesses that are not only viable but sustainable, ensuring long-term growth and economic impact.
Phase Two Expansion and County Support
The launch in the North Rift is part of Phase Two of NYOTA, under which nearly 50,000 youths from 27 counties are expected to receive similar startup funds after completing mandatory business skills training. The rollout covers counties in the Rift Valley, Central, Eastern and Nairobi regions, representing a significant expansion from the project’s first phase.
Earlier this year, Phase One supported more than 12,000 youth in the Western Cluster, disbursing over KSh 303.8 million (US$2.4 million in startup capital. Counties across the country have pledged additional support for beneficiaries. Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika announced a two-year waiver on business licenses and levies for NYOTA participants, while other counties have promised access to local business funds, market stalls and government procurement opportunities through AGPO programs.
Beneficiaries at the Eldoret launch described the funding as a timely boost for small businesses struggling with capital shortages. Many highlighted that the combination of seed money, mentorship and savings support could transform their business prospects and livelihoods. Officials emphasized that the project is about more than financial support, it is a pathway for youth to gain practical skills, grow resilient businesses and contribute meaningfully to Kenya’s economy.
