State injects Sh28bn to empower small businesses via NYOTA program
Through the NYOTA initiative, 70 businesses in every ward will be awarded grants of Sh50,000 each by the national government.
The government has set aside Sh28 billion to support small-scale enterprises in all 1,450 wards through the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) initiative.
During an Empowerment Forum for Small-Scale Traders held on Wednesday in Lari Constituency, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki highlighted that this program is among several key initiatives by the Kenya Kwanza administration aimed at driving economic growth at the grassroots level.
"We are committed to transforming Kenya, starting from the grassroots. It is a challenging task, but we remain dedicated. The process will take time, but our focus is unwavering," Kindiki stated.
Through the NYOTA initiative, 70 businesses in every ward will be awarded grants of Sh50,000 each by the national government.
Kindiki addressed doubts about the grant size, stressing its meaningful effect.
"Some believe Sh50,000 is too small, but for a business with just Sh10,000 in stock, this amount can make a substantial difference," he explained.
According to Kindiki, the initiative seeks to empower low-income entrepreneurs by enhancing their business profits and improving their quality of life.
He also encouraged citizens to focus on service delivery and development rather than engaging in premature political campaigns.
"Don’t believe the false claims that nothing has been done. We have worked tirelessly to stabilize the economy, increase farmers’ incomes, and create jobs and opportunities for our youth. We are also rehabilitating roads, constructing markets, and extending electricity access," he affirmed.
He emphasized ongoing job creation efforts, citing 500,000 digital jobs through the Kazi Mtandaoni program, 250,000 jobs from the affordable housing project, and 200,000 opportunities under the Kazi Majuu program.
