[PHOTOS] Ruto, Kindiki in Nyeri for Nyota capital disbursement

President William Ruto and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki have presided over the Nyota Business Start-Up Capital disbursement in Nyeri County.

This comes even as the government continues rolling out the flagship youth empowerment programme across the country.

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Speaking during the event on Monday, President Ruto reiterated that the Nyota programme is a key pillar of his administration’s plan to tackle youth unemployment and expand access to economic opportunities, particularly for young people who have traditionally been excluded from formal financing systems.

He reiterated that the programme targets youth from diverse backgrounds, including those without formal academic qualifications.

The Nyeri disbursement followed similar exercises held in Kakamega, Eldoret, Nakuru and other regions as the government accelerates the nationwide rollout of the programme.

Under the Nyota Business Start-Up Capital initiative, beneficiaries receive seed capital through their NYOTA mobile wallets to start or expand small businesses, alongside structured support to build skills and ensure sustainability.

President Ruto has previously said the government plans to disburse billions of shillings to youth across the country in phases, targeting at least 100,000 young people in the current cycle.

He emphasised that the funds should be used prudently and strictly for the intended business purposes to ensure long-term impact.

“The resources we are providing are not handouts. They are meant to help you build viable enterprises. Use the money responsibly so that you can qualify for future phases and allow other young people to benefit,” he urged.

The Nyota initiative also includes other components such as on-the-job training, recognition of prior learning, and training on how young people can participate in government procurement opportunities.

These complementary interventions are designed to equip beneficiaries with practical skills and improve their competitiveness in the economy.

As the rollout continues to other counties, the government maintains that accountability, transparency and inclusivity will remain central to the implementation of the Nyota Business Start-Up Capital programme.