President William Ruto has arrived at Kenyatta Stadium, Machakos where he is set to launch the NYOTA Project Business Start-Up Capital programme.
He is accompanied by his deputy Kithure Kindiki. He will disburse Sh147.5 million to young entrepreneurs in Machakos, Kitui and Makueni counties, during the Thursday event.
According to State House, the programme will benefit 5,901 youths, each receiving Sh25,000 in the first phase to start or expand their businesses.
Of this amount, Sh22,000 will be deposited directly into beneficiaries’ Pochi la Biashara mobile money accounts, while Sh3,000 will be saved under the Haba na Haba savings account.
The savings account is managed by the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), promoting a savings culture among young businesspeople.
In the second phase, beneficiaries will receive an additional Sh25,000, bringing the total start-up capital under the NYOTA initiative to Sh50,000.
Officials said the programme aims to empower youth-led enterprises, boost local economies, and create jobs across the three counties.
President William Ruto interacting with youth at Machakos Stadium for the disbursement of NYOTA business start-up capital in Machakos County on January 15, 2026 /DPCS
President William Ruto interacting with youth at Machakos Stadium for the disbursement of NYOTA business start-up capital in Machakos County on January 15, 2026 /DPCS
President William Ruto interacting with youth at Machakos Stadium for the disbursement of NYOTA business start-up capital in Machakos County on January 15, 2026 /DPCS
President William Ruto with Deputy President Kithure Kindiki dancing with youth at Machakos Stadium for the disbursement of NYOTA business start-up capital in Machakos County on January 15, 2026 /DPCS
President William Ruto interacting with youth at Machakos Stadium for the disbursement of NYOTA business start-up capital in Machakos County on January 15, 2026 /DPCS
by SHARON MWENDE
