The National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) Program is a groundbreaking five-year initiative by the Kenyan government, supported by the World Bank, to empower youth across Kenya with employment, entrepreneurial support, financial literacy, and grants.
NYOTA Program Overview
- Objective: Reduce youth unemployment, improve incomes, and foster a culture of savings among Kenyan youth.
- Target Beneficiaries: 820,000+ young people countrywide over five years.
Eligibility Criteria for NYOTA Program
To apply for the NYOTA program and qualify for the Ksh 50,000 grant, an applicant must satisfy all the following conditions:
- Age: 18–29 years (up to 35 years for Persons with Disabilities).
- Education: Maximum of Form 4 level education (no diploma, college, or university).
- Employment Status: Unemployed, underemployed, or engaged in low-income/casual work.
- Nationality: Must be a Kenyan citizen with a valid national ID and a SIM card registered in their own name.
- Special Groups: The program proactively includes women, youth with disabilities, and marginalized groups, as well as refugee youth in camps located in Garissa and Turkana counties.
Key Features & Benefits
- Business Grants: Up to 70 beneficiaries per ward will receive a Ksh 50,000 grant, disbursed in two equal tranches. Funds are tied to participation in required training and mentorship.
- Skills Training & Apprenticeship: 90,000 youth will benefit from vocational skills training, on-the-job mentorship, and business linkages to enhance employability or entrepreneurial success.
- Financial Literacy: All participants receive training on saving and managing money, with the added benefit of automatic enrollment in the NSSF ‘Haba Haba’ Savings Scheme for over 190,000 youths.
- Access to Government Opportunities: Over 600,000 youth will undergo training under the Access to Government Procurement Opportunities (AGPO) to bid for tenders.
- Inclusivity & FREE Participation: No application fees or service charges; all NYOTA-related services are free of charge.
How to Apply for the NYOTA Program
- Dial USSD Code: *254# from any phone (feature or smartphone).
- Select NYOTA Option: Choose your preferred intervention (training, entrepreneurship, or skills recognition) during the guided process.
- Submit Details: Fill in your correct personal and educational data.
- Confirmation: Wait for follow-up and confirmation by program officials.
- Assistance: If you require help, visit the nearest State Department for Youth Affairs office or Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA) office.
Important Dates & Notes
- Application Deadline: This year’s applications close on 12th October 2025 at noon.
- Selection: Only those who have not defaulted on the Hustler Fund are eligible.
- Tranches: The grant is paid in two parts and linked to training/session attendance.
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Conclusion
The NYOTA Program is a transformative opportunity for Kenyan youth to gain business funding, training, and support—all entirely free and inclusive. By targeting vulnerable youth and providing not just funds but practical mentorship and skills, NYOTA stands at the forefront of efforts to reduce unemployment and drive inclusive development.
