Govt Announces Ksh50,000 Grant for Youth in New Empowerment Programme

The government, through the Ministry of Cooperatives, has unveiled a new initiative aimed at financially empowering young Kenyans.

This programme will see eligible youths receive Ksh50,000 each to help them start or expand their businesses.

While appearing before the National Assembly Committee on Trade and Cooperatives, ministry officials provided a detailed briefing on the programme’s objectives and implementation strategy.

The initiative, named the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) Project, is set to be rolled out nationwide, benefiting 70 young people in every ward across the country.

The Micro and Small Enterprise Authority (MSEA), which is overseeing the programme, described it as a more advanced version of the Kenya Youth Empowerment Program (KYEOP).

The goal is to increase youth employment, boost earnings, and encourage savings among vulnerable young people.

How the NYOTA Project Will Work

According to MSEA Project Coordinator Caroline Kioko, alongside Senior Enterprise Development Officer Evans Ballut, the project will provide financial support to more than 100,000 young entrepreneurs across all 47 counties. Each beneficiary will receive Ksh50,000 to either launch or grow a small business.

The funds will be distributed in two instalments of Ksh25,000 each. The primary target group includes young people with a Form Four certificate or lower, including school dropouts. The programme is open to youths aged 18 to 29 years, while those with disabilities can apply up to the age of 35.

Beyond financial support, recipients will also receive a comprehensive empowerment package that includes:
✔ Business Development Services (BDS) training
✔ Mentorship programs
✔ Guidance on financial management

Lawmakers Question Fund Adequacy

During the meeting, committee members, led by Chairperson Benard Shinali, raised concerns about whether Ksh50,000 would be enough to start a sustainable business.

Some lawmakers felt the amount was too low, considering the high cost of doing business.

In response, MSEA officials reassured the committee, arguing that many successful businesses have started with small amounts.

Project Coordinator Caroline Kioko pointed out that some businesses can be launched with as little as Ksh1,000, citing the example of the Hustler Fund, where loans start at Ksh500.

“There are many businesses that require minimal capital to start. With Ksh25,000, someone can buy stock and begin trading. Even a small amount, when managed well, can grow into a profitable venture,” Kioko explained.

The government hopes that by providing grants, training, and mentorship, the NYOTA Project will equip young entrepreneurs with the tools they need to succeed in business, ultimately reducing unemployment and improving livelihoods across the country.

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