By John Kariuki
In a bold and strategic move to tackle the persistent challenge of youth unemployment, the Government of Kenya has unveiled the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) program, an ambitious, inclusive and transformative initiative aimed at equipping young Kenyans with skills, capital and the support needed to build sustainable livelihoods.
Launched under the Bottom Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), the five year NYOTA program is designed to nurture self reliance and economic resilience among youth by providing hands on entrepreneurial training, technical skills development, access to startup capital and integration into the dynamic Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector.
NYOTA represents a significant paradigm shift in Kenya’s youth empowerment strategy, moving beyond short term interventions to deliver lasting, impactful solutions. Instead of merely seeking to create jobs, the program emphasizes income generation, financial literacy, saving culture and long term financial inclusion.
At its core, NYOTA offers a robust empowerment package that includes comprehensive business development training, seed capital of up to Ksh 50000, expert mentorship and strategic linkages to markets and essential business services. These elements are structured to ensure that young entrepreneurs have the tools and networks they need to thrive in today’s competitive economic landscape.
Eligible youth have been urged to take advantage of this opportunity before the application window closes. The program targets individuals aged 18 to 29, with an extended age limit of 35 for persons with disabilities. The application period for the first intake began on April 1 and will close on April 30, 2025.
Applicants must be Kenyan citizens with valid national ID cards, must have completed education no higher than Form Four, and must own a SIM card registered in their name. Interested individuals can apply using their mobile phones through a simple USSD menu by selecting the NYOTA program option.
A distinctive feature of NYOTA is its hybrid model, which merges entrepreneurial development with technical and vocational training in trades such as tailoring, carpentry, plumbing, electrical installation, mechanics and agribusiness. This dual track approach ensures inclusivity by catering to diverse interests and talents, offering pathways to both self employment and formal job opportunities.
Additionally, seasoned artisans and professionals will be incorporated into the program to deliver practical training and mentorship, bridging the gap between theory and real world experience.
Through NYOTA, the government is reaffirming its commitment to shifting the youth agenda from aspiration to action, turning potential into productivity and hope into tangible opportunity.
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