By Issa Hussein - Reporter
Kenya, 16 June 2026 - The government will begin disbursing the second tranche of start-up capital under the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) Project from 27 June 2026 in a move aimed at strengthening youth-owned enterprises and expanding employment opportunities across the country.
Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya said the NYOTA Project has continued to make significant strides in youth empowerment by creating pathways for skills development, employability, entrepreneurship and financial inclusion.
Speaking after a progress review meeting chaired by Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki, Mvurya said the programme has recorded impressive uptake among young people, attracting more than 600,000 applications nationwide.
In a statement, the Cabinet Secretary said over 50,000 youth have successfully completed Socio-Emotional Skills Development training, while more than 30,000 have been placed in apprenticeship opportunities aimed at improving their employability and workplace readiness.
He added that thousands of young people are also obtaining formal certification through the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) programme, enabling them to gain official recognition for skills acquired through informal training and work experience.
“The NYOTA Project’s impact on youth empowerment is commendable, having created meaningful pathways for skills development, employability, entrepreneurship and financial inclusion across the country,” said Mvurya.
The upcoming release of business support funds is expected to provide an additional boost to youth-led enterprises by enhancing their ability to expand operations, create jobs and generate sustainable incomes.
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Following the disbursement, beneficiaries will be encouraged to access other government-backed financing programmes, including the Hustler Fund, Uwezo Fund and the Youth Enterprise Development Fund, to secure additional capital and support long-term business growth.
Mvurya said the government remains committed to empowering young people through targeted interventions that equip them with skills, financing and opportunities to participate meaningfully in the economy.
The progress report and future roadmap for the NYOTA Project were discussed during a joint meeting involving government officials and project coordinators under the leadership of Deputy President Kindiki.
The NYOTA Project is one of the government's flagship youth empowerment initiatives designed to tackle unemployment and improve economic opportunities for young people through training, apprenticeships and entrepreneurship support.