Government Urges Youth to Apply for NYOTA Business Program

The National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) program has officially opened applications for its first cycle, inviting young entrepreneurs to benefit from a government-backed initiative aimed at tackling unemployment and boosting financial inclusion.

What is the NYOTA Business Program?

The NYOTA project is a five-year, World Bank-funded initiative designed to equip youth with business skills, financial literacy, and employment support. By creating sustainable opportunities, the program seeks to uplift vulnerable young people by fostering entrepreneurship and career development.

Who is Eligible?

According to a notice issued by NYOTA, the program targets Kenyan youth aged 18-29 years. However, for persons living with disabilities, the eligibility extends to 35 years. The program requirements include:

• Kenyan citizenship
• Aged 18-29 (or up to 35 for persons with disabilities)
• Form Four level education or below
• Possession of a valid National ID
• A registered SIM card in the applicant’s name
• Unemployed, underemployed, or engaged in low-tier employment

Notably, members of the Kenya Youth Employment Opportunities Project (KYEOP) are not eligible for this program.

Program Benefits

Participants will undergo a five-month apprenticeship that blends on-the-job training with mentorship from industry professionals. Upon successful completion, trainees will receive formal certification, including Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) from the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA). Graduates will then have the opportunity to secure formal employment or establish independent businesses.

How to Apply

Interested youth can submit their applications by dialing *254# and selecting the NYOTA project option. More information is available on the official NYOTA website: www.nyotaproject.go.ke.

The deadline for applications is April 30, 2025.

Government’s Commitment to Youth Empowerment

The government has reaffirmed its commitment to youth development, with former Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports CS Kipchumba Murkomen emphasizing the importance of policies that place youth at the center of economic growth.

“This initiative targets those with Form Four education and below, who are at the bottom of the economic and social pyramid due to limited access to government programs,” Murkomen previously stated.

Current Youth Affairs CS Salim Mvurya has also encouraged young people to seize this opportunity. He highlighted ongoing discussions between the government and the World Bank to enhance youth employment prospects, urging eligible candidates to apply before the deadline.

“Youth are encouraged to apply,” he posted on his social media platforms.

With the NYOTA program now open for applications, young entrepreneurs have a unique chance to access training, mentorship, and business support to secure their financial future. Stay tuned to Nairobian for updates on this and other opportunities shaping the future of Kenyan youth.

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Government Urges Youth to Apply for NYOTA Business Program