NYOTA PROJECT TO COMMENCE PHASE TWO OF BUSINESS SUPPORT COMPONENT IN 27 COUNTIES
The second phase, running from 8th to 16th January 2026, aims to strengthen youth enterprises through targeted business development interventions.
The Government of Kenya, through the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) Project, has officially announced the commencement of Phase Two of the Business Support Component, scheduled to run from 8th to 16th January 2026 across 27 counties.
The Phase Two rollout will cover Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, Nandi, Trans Nzoia, Turkana, West Pokot, Nakuru, Narok, Bomet, Kericho, Baringo, Laikipia, Isiolo, Samburu, Nyeri, Murang’a, Kirinyaga, Nyandarua, Meru, Tharaka Nithi, Embu, Machakos, Kitui, Makueni, Nairobi, Kiambu, and Kajiado.
Speaking through a statement, the Principal Secretary, State Department for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Development, Ms. Susan Mang’eni, noted that the activities will be conducted regionally and will be graced by H.E. Dr. William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya.
Under this phase, approximately 50,000 youth beneficiaries will each receive a business grant of Ksh. 22,000, deposited into their NYOTA Pochi la Biashara Wallet, alongside Ksh. 3,000 channelled to the Haba Haba Savings Scheme managed by the National Social Security Fund (NSSF).
“The Business Support Component is designed to empower young entrepreneurs with the capital, skills, and mentorship required to grow sustainable enterprises and create jobs,” said Ms. Mang’eni.
Following the disbursement, beneficiaries will undergo a two-month mentorship programme, receiving structured business development support from experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts. This will be followed by a second phase of Business Development Support (BDS) training, which will prepare participants for the second tranche of the business grant.
The Project further announced that Phase Three of the Business Support Component will cover Kilifi, Lamu, Tana River, Mombasa, Kwale, Taita Taveta, Kisumu, Siaya, Homa Bay, Migori, Nyamira, Kisii, Marsabit, Garissa, Mandera, and Wajir counties, with implementation details to be communicated in due course.
The first cohort of the NYOTA Business Support Component was launched on 7th December, 2025, at Mumias Sports Complex in Kakamega County, covering the Western region counties of Kakamega, Busia, Bungoma, and Vihiga, during an event presided over by the Head of State.
About the NYOTA Project
The NYOTA Project is a World Bank-financed initiative of the Government of Kenya aimed at enhancing youth employability, enterprise development, and savings culture. It targets unemployed youth aged 18–29 years, and up to 35 years for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).
The Project’s key intervention areas include Skills Certification, Business Support, Supporting Youth Savings and Strengthening Youth Employment Systems
Looking Ahead
In the coming weeks, the Project will roll out the On-the-Job Experience (OJE) intervention. OJE intervention provides beneficiaries with practical technical skills and hands-on work experience, culminating in certification, thereby increasing their chances of securing either formal employment or self-employment. It will be implemented through a phased approach across seven (7) Counties, namely: Nakuru, Kericho, Bomet, Kisii, Nyamira, Homa Bay, and Narok. Approximately 14,000 beneficiaries are expected to participate in mandatory Social Emotional Skills Development (SESD) training to enhance workplace readiness and employability.
The NYOTA Project continues to play a transformative role in empowering Kenyan youth to become productive employees and successful entrepreneurs.
