By Dorothy Musyoka
The government has disbursed approximately KSh250 million to more than 9,500 young people across Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, Nandi, Trans Nzoia, Turkana, and West Pokot counties under the Nyota Business Start-Up Capital Programme.
“We have disbursed about KSh250 million to over 9,500 young people from Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, Nandi, Trans Nzoia, Turkana, and West Pokot counties under the Nyota Business Start Up Capital programme. Each beneficiary has received KSh22,000 to grow their enterprises,” stated President Ruto.
In addition, an extra KSh3,000 was deposited into the beneficiaries’ savings accounts at the National Social Security Fund (NSSF).
Speaking during the Nyota North Rift Cluster Business Start-Up Capital disbursement ceremony held in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, it was reaffirmed that the programme goes beyond start-up financing to address skills development, employability and long-term economic inclusion for young people.
Under the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) component of Nyota, the government will support 20,000 young people by fully funding certification courses of up to one month.
This initiative is designed to formally recognise existing skills and facilitate a smooth transition into gainful employment.
Additionally, 90,000 young people will benefit from on-the-job training, where they will be attached to master craftsmen and women for hands-on skills transfer.
During the six-month training period, each trainee will receive a monthly stipend of KSh6,000, while the master craftsmen will also be compensated.
The government will further meet the cost of certification to ensure trainees graduate with recognised qualifications.
To enhance inclusive economic participation, the government will train 600,000 young people, women, and persons with disabilities to effectively access the 30 per cent of government procurement opportunities reserved for these special groups.
The Nyota Programme underscores the government’s commitment to empowering young people with capital, skills, and opportunities, enabling them to become active drivers of economic growth and social transformation across the country.