The Government of Kenya, in partnership with the World Bank, has unveiled the NYOTA Program to support over 200,000 youth through job creation, entrepreneurship, and digital innovation initiatives.
By: Ogonyo Centrine
In a major move to boost youth empowerment, the Government of Kenya, in partnership with the World Bank, has officially launched a new initiative aimed at opening doors for thousands of young people across the country.The program, known as the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA), is expected to benefit over 200,000 youths by providing access to employment, entrepreneurship, digital innovation, and the creative economy.
The launch took place in Nairobi and was led by the Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports, Salim Mvurya. He was accompanied by the Principal Secretary for Youth Affairs and Creative Economy, Fikirini Jacobs. Also in attendance were youth leaders from all 47 counties, government officials, development partners, and members of the private sector. CS Mvurya described the NYOTA Program as a key part of the government’s ongoing efforts to tap into the potential of the country’s youth. The initiative, he said, goes beyond being just another government project.
“NYOTA is not just a project; it’s a platform that will change how young people in Kenya access opportunities,” Mvurya said. “It is designed to be inclusive, transparent, and accessible to every youth, regardless of background,” he added.
According to the CS, the entire application process has been made digital and can easily be done using a mobile phone. Applicants only need internet access and a national ID. There’s no paperwork and, importantly, no need for personal connections in government to benefit.
“You don’t need to know someone to apply,” he stated. “Whether you want business support, certification through prior learning, or access to creative industry programs, all you need is your phone.”
Mvurya also announced that the response to the program has already been impressive, with applications surpassing initial projections. The program will now move into its next stage—full rollout and implementation.He applauded the recent public logo competition for the program, in which young designers submitted entries and winners were selected through a transparent process. He added that the full implementation of NYOTA is set to take place during International Youth Week in August, with many applicants expected to begin receiving support by then.
On his part, Principal Secretary Fikirini Jacobs encouraged young people to apply only for the available components of the program, warning that submitting incorrect applications could lead to disqualification. He noted that applications for the On-Job Experience (OJE) component are currently open and can be accessed via the *254# mobile platform.Fikirini also highlighted NYOTA’s commitment to inclusivity, particularly for young people who haven’t had formal education. Through recognition of prior learning, the program aims to provide certification and new opportunities for those who have gained skills informally.
He explained that NYOTA also includes access to government procurement opportunities, support for social enterprises, and financial inclusion for disadvantaged youth.
The PS spoke about the ongoing Labour Mobility Program, which helps young Kenyans find jobs abroad. He revealed that 600 youths are currently being supported with up to Sh300,000 each to help them take up overseas jobs. This support is being facilitated through the Youth Enterprise Development Fund (YEDF).
“Remittances from Kenyan youth working abroad under this program brought in over Sh5 billion last year,” Fikirini said, emphasizing the value of diaspora contributions to the economy.
He also announced plans for a Digital Youth Opportunity Passport, which will consolidate all youth-related programs on one platform to ensure easier access to services. He called on the National Youth Council to speed up the digitization process so that young people can stay updated in real time. With NYOTA now underway, the government hopes it will become a turning point in how young Kenyans find, access, and take advantage of opportunities across different sectors.
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