The government has rolled out the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) Mtaani program, a youth empowerment initiative aimed at boosting job creation, entrepreneurship, and skills development across all 47 counties. President William Ruto officially dispatched all Principal Secretaries to spearhead the program’s nationwide launch in partnership with the World Bank.
What is the NYOTA Mtaani Program?
NYOTA Mtaani seeks to equip young Kenyans with the tools to become self-reliant through training, work experience, and start-up capital. The program is expected to reach about 820,000 youths nationwide. Out of these, 100,000 will receive Ksh.50,000 each to start small businesses, while 90,000 will be placed with employers and artisans to gain hands-on experience. Additionally, over 600,000 will be trained on Access to Government Procurement Opportunities (AGPO), enabling them to compete for tenders reserved for youth, women, and persons with disabilities.
The initiative will select 70 beneficiaries from each of Kenya’s 1,450 wards, ensuring equitable access across the country. According to the government, the NYOTA program aims to cultivate a generation of resilient young entrepreneurs and professionals who can make meaningful contributions to the economy.
Who Qualifies and How Can You Apply?
NYOTA is open to Kenyan youth aged 18 to 29, as well as persons with disabilities up to 35 years old. The program will also prioritize women, targeting at least 50% female participation, and youth living in refugee camps in Turkana and Garissa.
To apply:
- Dial the free USSD code *254# on any mobile phone.
- Select the NYOTA option.
- Enter your personal and educational details.
- Choose your preferred category: training, entrepreneurship, or skills recognition.
- Wait for a confirmation message and follow the next steps provided.
However, applicants with outstanding Hustler Fund loans will be excluded from this opportunity. The government stated that defaulters have “proven they cannot be trusted with the fund,” emphasizing that NYOTA is meant for responsible and committed youth.
By Yockshard Enyendi