President William Ruto spent part of his week at the Moi Sports Centre in Kasarani interacting with beneficiaries of the NYOTA Disbursement Project.

It was a lively occasion. Youths gathered to receive their business start-up capital, and there was music and celebration.

Local performers like Kartelo gave energetic performances in honour of the President. The atmosphere was hopeful and festive.

William Ruto // X
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This event marked another major step in the roll-out of the NYOTA programme — a government scheme aimed at empowering young Kenyans with business skills and capital.

What Is the NYOTA Project?

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The NYOTA Project (National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement) is a flagship youth empowerment initiative.

It aims to:

  • Support young people with business training and mentorship.

  • Provide start-up capital to help them launch enterprises.

  • Build financial literacy and savings culture.

  • Offer continued support through structured follow-ups.
William Ruto // X

Over 100,000 young Kenyans are expected to benefit across all 47 counties.

Key numbers:

  • Approx. 70 beneficiaries per ward are included

  • Each gets Ksh22,000 for business capital.

  • An extra Ksh3,000 goes into a savings account under the Haba Na Haba scheme.

  • The nationwide second phase runs January 8–16, 2026. A Lively Celebration at Kasarani.

Young people gathered early at Moi Sports Centre. Many wore bright colours. There was singing. There was dancing.

Kartelo took to the stage to perform for the President and the crowd. People cheered. Smiles spread across faces. Phones lit up as many recorded the moment.

William Ruto // X

The mood was upbeat. It was more than an official function. It felt like a community celebration.

What the President Said

During his remarks, President Ruto encouraged beneficiaries to use the funds wisely. “This programme gives every young Kenyan an equal chance,” he said.

ALSO READ: Ruto Challenges Gen Zs Over 25: “Get Married & Ditch Nightclub Life”

He stressed that the project aims to promote transparency through a digitised selection and payout process.

The President linked NYOTA to broader economic goals. He said business start-up capital and mentorship would help solve unemployment among Kenyan youth.

How the Money Supports Youth

Each beneficiary receives income in two parts:

  • Ksh22,000 — credited to a Pochi La Biashara Wallet for business use

  • Ksh3,000 — placed in a Haba Na Haba savings plan under NSSF

The savings component is designed to help young entrepreneurs build a financial safety net. It cannot be fully accessed right away, but it becomes available as the business grows.

This approach tackles two challenges at once: lack of capital and lack of savings culture among new business owners.

What Comes Next

After the disbursement, the programme offers:

  • Continued mentorship by business professionals

  • Additional classroom and practical business training

  • Follow-ups to track progress and impact
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Beneficiaries will take part in a two-month mentorship programme to help build confidence and sharpen business planning skills.

Officials say this support is crucial for long-term success.

The Bigger Picture

The NYOTA Project is part of Kenya’s wider efforts to boost job creation and entrepreneurship.

It complements other government schemes such as:

  • Affordable Housing Programme

  • Digital economy initiatives

  • Support for job placement and internships

With over 50,000 beneficiaries already receiving funds in this phase, the initiative is rapidly expanding.

What Young People Are Saying

For many, this moment is personal.

One beneficiary told a local reporter:

“This funding will help me start my tailoring business. I’ve always dreamed of this.”

Another said the training helped her write a solid business plan before collecting her funds.

Although not everyone has praised the project, the buzz on the ground at Kasarani was one of hope and determination.

What Happens Next

The NYOTA rollout will continue across Kenya in the coming weeks.

Youth from Nairobi, Kiambu, Kajiado and other counties will receive their start-up capital at similar events.

Each event is expected to mix official business with community engagement — much like the day at Kasarani.