[PHOTOS] Ruto disburses Nyota business start-up funds, urges prudent use

President William Ruto on Thursday disbursed the Nyota Business Start-Up Capital to youth across Uasin Gishu, Nandi, Elgeyo Marakwet, Trans Nzoia, and Turkana counties, urging beneficiaries to use the funds responsibly and for their intended business purposes.

The event, held at the Eldoret Sports Club, brought together young entrepreneurs who are set to benefit from the government’s ongoing youth empowerment initiatives.

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Speaking during the ceremony, President Ruto emphasised that young people are the country’s most valuable resource, describing human capital as “our biggest capital in the republic.”

He stressed that the government is committed to investing heavily in youth development and entrepreneurship, underlining the critical role of start-up funds in unlocking economic opportunities.

“Human capital is our biggest capital in our republic, and that’s why we are investing a lot of funds. Young people are our biggest resource,” President Ruto said, addressing the beneficiaries.

The Nyota Business Start-Up Fund is part of the government’s broader strategy to support youth-led enterprises, create employment, and stimulate economic growth at the county level.

President Ruto urged beneficiaries to exercise prudence and discipline in utilising the capital, warning against diverting the resources for purposes other than their intended businesses.

“Use the funds accordingly and for the intended business purposes. This is your opportunity to build sustainable ventures,” he said, emphasising accountability among the youth.

In his address, the President also took a swipe at political critics, noting that many focus on gaining votes rather than presenting actionable plans.

He urged political actors to outline their track records and avoid divisive rhetoric that undermines national unity.

“There are those who have even gone to the extent of involving our children in politics. How desperate can people be? Let them be,” Ruto remarked, highlighting his stance against manipulation and partisan exploitation of the youth.

President Ruto further highlighted the government’s achievements in the education sector, including the employment of 100,000 teachers set to be on board by January and capitation funding of Sh44 billion.

He announced that, for the first time, capitation funding per child will be increased to Sh22,000, a move aimed at enhancing access to quality education and supporting the human capital that forms the backbone of Kenya’s development agenda.

The President’s remarks underscored the government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for youth entrepreneurship while strengthening education and human capital investment.