Thousands of young Kenyans are starting and growing businesses thanks to the Nyota Fund, a government programme led by President William Ruto. The programme aims to help young people earn a living and reduce unemployment. It focuses on youth aged 18 to 29 years, including people with disabilities up to 35 years.
Each young person receives twenty-two thousand shillings to use for their business. In addition, three thousand shillings is saved in a special account to help them learn how to manage money. Later, they are expected to get another twenty-five thousand shillings after completing training and mentorship. This means each young person can get a total of fifty thousand shillings to start or grow a business.
The fund does more than give money. Young people also get training and guidance to run their businesses properly. Many are using the money to start small shops, farms, service businesses, and other projects that earn them an income. Some are even creating jobs for people in their communities.
Since it started, thousands of youth in Nairobi, Kiambu, and Kajiado counties have received support. In the first round, over two hundred and fifty-eight million shillings were given to more than ten thousand young people. The government plans to expand the programme to more counties so that even more young people can benefit.
The Nyota Fund is helping young Kenyans move from small, informal work to proper businesses. It is also helping them face challenges like not having money, a lack of skills, or difficulty finding customers. By giving them funds, training, and mentorship, the programme is giving youth the tools to succeed.
