President William Ruto has announced that the government will begin disbursing funds to beneficiaries of the World Bank-backed NYOTA Programme starting November 4, with the programme targeting youth across the country seeking financial support for business and technical ventures.
Speaking during the Mashujaa Day celebrations held at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui County on Monday, the President revealed that the government, with the help of the World Bank, has set aside Ksh20 billion to fund various youth initiatives under the NYOTA Programme.
He noted that the initiative aims to reach 800,000 young people through different categories, including business start-ups, technical training, and innovation support.
Verification Resumption
Ruto further announced that starting Friday, October 24, the government will launch a nationwide verification exercise across all 290 constituencies to ensure that only eligible youth benefit from the programme.
The Head of State called on Members of Parliament, Members of County Assemblies, and local leaders to participate in and support the exercise to guarantee transparency and fairness.
“We have Ksh20 billion from the World Bank to give to our youth. We will be targeting 800,000 youths who will receive funding under different categories of the NYOTA project,” Ruto stated.
Adding that, “This coming Friday, we will be doing verification in every constituency targeting the business cohort. This will enable them to open businesses and contribute to the country’s growth.”
Last week, the government postponed the verification of the NYOTA applications that were scheduled to take place on Friday, October 17, 2025, across all 290 constituencies.
The decision came in the wake of the sudden passing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who passed on Wednesday, October 15.
What Government Targets
Under the NYOTA Programme, 90,000 youth will undergo technical and vocational training aimed at equipping them with practical skills for the job market, according to Ruto.
The programme will also recognise prior learning for those who have acquired technical skills through apprenticeships or informal work, awarding them certificates to enhance their employability.
Additionally, youth interested in entrepreneurship and small-scale business ventures will be eligible to receive grants of Ksh50,000 each.
Further, the government targets to support at least 100,000 youth under this business funding component as part of its broader plan to empower young people economically.
The Head of State emphasised that the NYOTA Programme is part of the Kenya Kwanza administration’s commitment to tackling unemployment and boosting self-employment among young people. He urged beneficiaries to use the funds responsibly to create sustainable livelihoods and contribute to the national economy.
