Waiguru Adds KSh10,000 Boost to NYOTA Programme
On Friday, July 10, 2026, Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru announced a KSh 10,000 top-up for every beneficiary of the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) programme in the county.
The additional funding increases the total startup capital for each beneficiary from KSh 50,000 to KSh 60,000.
Governor Waiguru said the initiative will strengthen youth-owned businesses and complement the nationalgovernment’s empowerment programme.
How the Funding Is Structured
The national government provides KSh 50,000 under the NYOTA programme. Beneficiaries receive the funds in two installments of KSh 25,000 each.
Kirinyaga County will now add KSh 10,000 to every beneficiary. Consequently, eligible youth in the county will receive KSh 60,000 in total startup capital.
County Waives Business Permit Fees
Governor Waiguru also announced a waiver on county business permit fees for NYOTA beneficiaries. The waiver aims to reduce startup costs and help young entrepreneurs establish their businesses.
County officials expect the support to improve business survival during the early stages.
National Programme Targets 122,000 Youth
President William Ruto launched the latest phase of the NYOTA programme to tackle youth unemployment. The national rollout targets more than 122,000 vulnerable young people across all 47 counties.
Besides financial support, beneficiaries receive mentorship and training on financial management. The programme also promotes entrepreneurship and sustainable job creation.
NSSF Savings Component
Part of the funding supports beneficiaries’ long-term financial security. From each KSh 25,000 installment, KSh 3,000 goes directly into the beneficiary’s NSSF Haba na Haba account.
The remaining balance is transferred to the beneficiary’s registered mobile money wallet. The initiative combines immediate business support with long-term social protection for young entrepreneurs.
