Overview of the NYOTA Project’s Business Start-Up Capital Programme
The government has successfully disbursed Sh303.9 million under the Business Start-Up Capital programme of the NYOTA Project, marking a significant milestone in this nationwide initiative aimed at supporting youth enterprises. This financial support has reached 12,155 beneficiaries, who have each received Sh22,000 through their NYOTA Pochi la Biashara wallet.
Each beneficiary is required to set aside Sh3,000 as a mandatory deduction for savings, which accounts for 30% of the total amount. This portion is designated for short-term savings and can be accessed periodically. The remaining 70%, however, is tied to the project’s tenure, ensuring long-term financial stability for the beneficiaries.
The savings component of the programme is designed to foster a culture of saving among the youths, acting as a safety net in case of unexpected disruptions to their businesses. This approach serves as a key de-risking mechanism, helping to safeguard the financial future of participants.
Targeted Implementation and Next Steps
The initial phase of the disbursements focused on youths from the Western cluster, specifically in Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, and Busia. This followed the official launch of the NYOTA Project on November 7, 2025, at the Mumias Sports Complex.
Beneficiaries are now preparing to enter a two-month mentorship programme, after which they will undergo a second round of Business Development Services (BDS) training. Upon completion of these steps, they will receive their final tranche of funding.
Expansion and Future Plans
The NYOTA Project aims to support 100,000 vulnerable youth across 1,450 wards, with an additional 10,000 refugees and host community members in Kakuma and Dadaab. The intake of refugee beneficiaries is currently being finalized, indicating the project’s commitment to inclusivity and broader community development.
The government is also rolling out four-day business training sessions in 25 counties, covering 151 constituencies and 754 wards. A total of 63,231 youth are expected to participate in these sessions. To qualify for the start-up capital, beneficiaries must attend at least three days of training.
Training for the remaining 18 counties, including Nairobi, Kiambu, Mombasa, and Nyeri, is scheduled to begin next week. Disbursements are anticipated to follow immediately after the conclusion of the classroom sessions.
Key Components of the NYOTA Project
- Financial Support: Each youth receives Sh22,000, with a mandatory savings component.
- Savings Mechanism: Promotes financial resilience through short-term and long-term savings.
- Mentorship and Training: Two-month mentorship and Business Development Services (BDS) training are essential components of the programme.
- Expansion Goals: Targets 100,000 youth and 10,000 refugees across multiple regions.
- Training Infrastructure: 222 designated training centres ensure accessibility and quality of instruction.
The NYOTA Project represents a comprehensive effort to empower youth and build sustainable economic opportunities. With its structured approach to financial support, education, and mentorship, it is poised to make a lasting impact on the communities it serves.