Phase Two of NYOTA Youth Business Funding Programme

The government has unveiled plans to roll out the second phase of the NYOTA Project’s business start-up capital, extending support to youth in 27 counties across the country. The programme will be implemented between January 8 and January 16, 2026, with county-based disbursement and mentorship forums scheduled during the period and expected to be officiated by President William Ruto.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the Ministry of Cooperatives said approximately 50,000 young beneficiaries will receive KSh22,000 each through their NYOTA mobile wallets, in addition to KSh3,000 that will be channelled into their National Social Security Fund (NSSF) savings accounts as part of a broader effort to promote a savings culture among the youth.

The disbursement will kick off in Eldoret on January 8, covering Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, Nandi, Trans Nzoia, Turkana and West Pokot counties. Nakuru will host events on January 9 and January 12 for beneficiaries drawn from Nakuru, Narok, Bomet, Kericho, Baringo, Laikipia, Isiolo and Samburu counties, with the President expected to attend.

Nyeri and Meru counties are scheduled for January 14 and 15, while Machakos County will host beneficiaries on January 15. The second phase will conclude on January 16 with events in Nairobi, Kiambu and Kajiado counties.

All recipients of the business grants will undergo a two-month mentorship programme facilitated by business development experts and local entrepreneurs. The initiative aims to support more than 100,000 vulnerable youth across all 1,450 wards, with at least 70 beneficiaries per ward, by providing business training, start-up capital and mentorship.

According to the State Department for MSMEs Development, the nationwide classroom-based business training has already been completed. The first phase, rolled out on November 7, 2025, covered Kakamega, Vihiga, Busia and Bungoma counties, benefiting 12,155 youths. The government has said details of a third phase, targeting 16 additional counties, will be announced later.