MSMEs PS Susan Mang'eni. Photo/Courtesy
The State Department of Youth Affairs has unveiled the schedule for the second phase of the NYOTA Project Business Support Component, aimed at supporting youth who completed the mandatory business skills training.
Disbursements will run from January 8 to January 16, 2026, with President William Ruto expected to attend key events.
This phase targets 27 counties, including Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, Nandi, Trans-Nzoia, Turkana, West Pokot, Nakuru, Narok, Bomet, Kericho, Baringo, Laikipia, Isiolo, Samburu, Nyeri, Murang’a, Kirinyaga, Nyandarua, Meru, Tharaka Nithi, Embu, Machakos, Kitui, Makueni, Nairobi, Kiambu, and Kajiado.
Disbursement venues have been strategically allocated across Eldoret, Nakuru, Nanyuki, Nyeri, Meru, Machakos, and Nairobi to ensure beneficiaries have convenient access.
Close to 50,000 youth will each receive Ksh 22,000 in their NYOTA Pochi la Biashara wallet, with an additional Ksh 3,000 deposited into their Haba na Haba account under NSSF to promote savings.
Beneficiaries are expected to use the funds according to business plans developed during the three-day classroom training.
The NYOTA Project has already empowered thousands of youth nationwide.
The first disbursement in November 2025 covered the Western Cluster—Kakamega, Vihiga, Busia, and Bungoma—where 12,155 youth received Ksh 25,000 each, including Ksh 3,000 allocated to savings, amounting to over Ksh 303 million.
In addition to financial support, all beneficiaries will participate in a two-month mentorship programme facilitated by business development experts and local entrepreneurs.
The mentorship is designed to guide youth in establishing sustainable businesses, navigating local markets, and enhancing profitability.
A second phase of business development training will also prepare participants for the next tranche of the business grant.
The State Department emphasized the importance of full participation in the mentorship and follow-up sessions, which are integral to the success of the NYOTA initiative.
The schedule for the third phase, covering counties such as Mombasa, Kisumu, Garissa, and Mandera, will be announced in due course.
The NYOTA Project continues to serve as a vital tool for youth empowerment, blending financial aid, skill-building, and expert guidance to strengthen Kenya’s entrepreneurial landscape.