A total of 1,096 youths from Bungoma County are set to benefit from the government’s National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) program, which provides business funding and training opportunities to empower young people across the country.

The project rolled out in Bungoma at the Kibabii Vocational Training Centre, seeks to equip youths with vital business and entrepreneurship skills before disbursing a grant of Sh50,000 to each successful applicant. The funds are aimed at either boosting existing enterprises or supporting new business start-ups.

Speaking during the youth business skills training session on Friday, Patrick Kamenyi, the NYOTA project coordinator, confirmed that Bungoma County had secured 1,096 slots under the initiative’s first cohort.

“We are delighted to announce that 1,096 youths from Bungoma will benefit from the NYOTA program. This initiative is designed to give them an opportunity not only to access capital but also to sharpen their entrepreneurial skills for long-term success,” Kamenyi said.

According to him, the program structure ensures that beneficiaries first undergo comprehensive business training before receiving funds.

After the training, the first batch of Sh25,000 will be deposited into their accounts to either jumpstart or strengthen their business ventures.

To enhance accountability and mentorship, trainers and mentors have been identified across the county and paired with the beneficiaries.

These trainers will offer guidance and walk with the young entrepreneurs throughout the project.

“We have carefully matched trainers with the beneficiaries so that the youths can receive consistent mentorship, encouragement, and technical support,” Kamenyi explained.

After the initial disbursement, beneficiaries will undergo a three-day capacity-building training session three months later to evaluate their business progress.

The second phase of training will focus on tackling challenges, reviewing successes and preparing the ground for the release of the final Sh25, 000 tranche.

Muchungu further revealed that the NYOTA program is part of a Sh5 billion government fund targeting Kenyan youth aged 18–29 years, with special provisions for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) aged 18–35 years.

Nationally, at least 50,000 youths are expected to benefit from the business support grant.

“This is money allocated by the government of Kenya to help young people start or expand businesses. It is important to note that this is a grant, not a loan. Beneficiaries will not be required to repay it,” Kamenyi emphasized.

Nancy Njeri, a young poultry farmer from the county, said the support had come at the right time to expand her agribusiness.

“Currently, I am running a small poultry business. With this grant, I will be able to expand operations, increase production and create more income. I am grateful to the government for prioritizing the youth,” Njeri said.

Other beneficiaries noted that the program would cushion them from the challenges of unemployment while inspiring them to pursue entrepreneurship as a sustainable source of livelihood.