President William Ruto Speaking during the during the Nyota North Rift Cluster Business Start-Up Capital disbursement in Eldoret. Photo Andrew Mbuva. 
By Andrew Mbuva
President William Ruto has disbursed Sh. 250 million to more than 9,500 young people from Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo-Marakwet, Nandi, Trans Nzoia, Turkana, and West Pokot counties under the government’s Nyota Business Start-Up Capital Programme.
Each beneficiary received Sh. 22,000 to grow their enterprises, while an additional Sh. 3,000 was deposited into their savings accounts at the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) to encourage long-term financial planning.
Speaking during the Nyota North Rift Cluster Business Start-Up Capital disbursement in Eldoret, President Ruto outlined a comprehensive plan to address youth unemployment. “We are not only funding young entrepreneurs but also equipping them with skills, mentorship, and market access to ensure sustainable livelihoods,” he said.
The President revealed that the programme will extend further support to 20,000 youth under the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) initiative, funding certification courses of up to one month to facilitate smooth transitions into formal employment.
In addition, 90,000 young people will undergo on-the-job training, attached to master craftsmen and women for skills transfer. Trainees will receive a Sh. 6,000 monthly stipend for six months, while master craftsmen will also be compensated, and the government will cover certification costs.
President Ruto further announced plans to train 600,000 youth, women, and persons with disabilities to access 30 percent of government procurement opportunities reserved for these groups, enhancing participation in public sector projects.
“These programmes, together with labour mobility initiatives, affordable housing, market and hostel development, and expansion of digital jobs, demonstrate our commitment to tackling unemployment and eradicating poverty,” the President emphasized.
The initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to empower youth economically, foster entrepreneurship, and create sustainable employment opportunities across the country.
