President William Ruto with Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja during the Nyota event at Kasarani Stadium on January 19, 2026/HANDOUT

Nairobi Governor Sakaja Johnson has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to empowering young people and small enterprises, urging beneficiaries of the Nyota disbursement to seize the opportunity and build sustainable livelihoods.

Speaking during the Nyota disbursement ceremony at Kasarani Sports Centre, Sakaja assured beneficiaries that the county government would walk with them as they take their first steps into entrepreneurship.

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja greets youths during the Nyota event at Kasarani Stadium on January 19, 2026/HANDOUT
Read Also
Mecha eyes KRU Championship as Kisii Poly set for Kabarak showdown Rugby
Wanyonyi to reignite rivalry with Arop, Sedjati in Oslo Athletics
KSSSA Nyanza region to roll out digital player verification to curb cheating Sports

He announced that Nairobi County will waive business permit fees for new start-ups ny Nairobi Nyota Fund beneficiaries, a move he said is aimed at easing the burden on young entrepreneurs and allowing them to focus on growing their ventures.

Enjoying this article? Subscribe for unlimited access to premium sports coverage.
View Plans

The governor encouraged recipients not to dismiss modest beginnings, noting that even small capital can spark transformative change.

“Do not despise small beginnings. What you receive today can help you start a business, and that business can grow, not only benefiting you but also creating opportunities for others,” he said.

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja greets youths during the Nyota event at Kasarani Stadium on January 19, 2026/HANDOUT
Reiterating the county’s support, Sakaja added: “As a county, we will stand with you as you start your businesses. We are waiving business permit fees for beginners so that nothing holds you back from turning your ideas into livelihoods.”

The event marked the Nairobi edition of the Nyota rollout and was attended by several leaders, including Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru and Kajiado Governor Joseph Ole Lenku, underscoring inter-county support for youth empowerment initiatives.

Youths  follow proceedings during the Nyota event at Kasarani Stadium on January 19, 2026/HANDOUT
The NYOTA Programme (National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement) is a national government initiative supported by the World Bank. It targets youth unemployment by enhancing skills development, entrepreneurship and employment opportunities.

The programme offers training, grants of up to Sh50,000, apprenticeships with stipends, and promotes savings for up to 820,000 young people aged 18 to 29, with a focus on digital skills, creative industries and business development.