President Ruto Launches NYOTA Start-up Capital Disbursement in Nairobi

On Monday, January 19, 2026, President William Ruto launched the NYOTA Start-up Capital Disbursement at Kasarani Stadium.
The event marked a major milestone in Phase Two of the national NYOTA project rollout. Importantly, the launch reinforced the government’s commitment to youth empowerment and entrepreneurship.

NYOTA Project Strengthens Youth Economic Empowerment

The NYOTA project focuses on reducing youth unemployment across Kenya. Notably, the initiative is a KSh 5 billion partnership between the Government of Kenya and the World Bank. Moreover, it targets 100,000 young entrepreneurs nationwide.
Each of Kenya’s 1,450 wards will benefit from at least 70 supported youths.

During the Kasarani launch, over 10,500 youths received funding support. Specifically, beneficiaries came from Nairobi, Kiambu, and Kajiado counties. Each youth received KSh 25,000 as first-phase start-up capital.
This support aims to kick-start small businesses and promote self-employment.

Clear and Structured Fund Allocation System

The disbursement followed a transparent and structured model. First, KSh 22,000 went directly into each beneficiary’s Pochi La Biashara mobile wallet.
This amount supports daily business operations and working capital. Meanwhile, KSh 3,000 entered the Haba Haba savings account at NSSF. Consequently, the program encourages a strong savings culture among young entrepreneurs.

Eligibility and Inclusive Youth Targeting

The NYOTA project targets unemployed or underemployed youth aged 18 to 29 years. However, persons with disabilities qualify up to 35 years. Additionally, applicants must have attained up to secondary-level education.
This approach ensures inclusivity and nationwide accessibility.

Mentorship and Business Training After Disbursement

After receiving funds, beneficiaries will undergo a two-month mentorship program.
They will also receive business development training. Subsequently, successful participants will qualify for a second grant tranche.
Therefore, NYOTA supports sustainable enterprise growth, not short-term relief.

National Rollout Gains Momentum in January 2026

Earlier, President Ruto launched NYOTA in several regions. These included Eldoret, Nyeri, Samburu, and Machakos.
As a result, the program continues gaining nationwide momentum.
Overall, NYOTA positions youth at the center of Kenya’s economic transformation.