The Government Spokesperson, Dr. Isaac Mwaura, in his weekly press briefing today underscored various economic milestones achieved by the UDA administration through transformational policies.
Notably, Dr. Mwaura highlighted Youth Empowerment and Economic Inclusion where he affirmed that the government, led by President William Ruto, has successfully completed the distribution of grants under the Nyota National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA)Program, benefiting 121,800 young entrepreneurs nationwide with Sh2.586 billion in startup capital.
This initiative, according to the Govt. Spokesperson, emphasizes transparency, accountability and inclusivity, extending support to persons with disabilities and refugee communities.
He also mentioned that beneficiaries have received business training, financial literacy education, and ongoing mentorship.
Primarily, the program includes a six-month On-the-Job Experience (OJE) apprenticeship for 90,000 vulnerable youth aged 18-29, with an extension to 35 years for youth with disabilities, focusing on skills in sectors such as mechanics and construction.
“The next phase will involve mentorship and business development support, along with recognition for prior learning through certification for experienced professionals,” announced Dr. Mwaura.
On Social Protection and Inclusion, he cited a presidential directive which mandates the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection to recognize the compounded vulnerabilities faced by women, youth, persons with disabilities, elders and minority communities.
“There is a roadmap for enrolling marginalized groups into cash transfer programs, with additional funding secured,” declared the Govt. Spokesperson.
Importantly, Dr. Mwaura disclosed that grants for persons with severe disabilities have increased from 46,000 to 63,938, orphans and vulnerable children now at number 438,804, and senior citizens receiving support totaling 1,213,214.
Further, he reported that the government is implementing the Building Code 2024 and the Persons with Disabilities Act 2025 to ensure public buildings are accessible, while the Older Persons Bill 2025 is being developed to guarantee care and protection.
“Plans are underway to train 600,000 mothers and sole caregivers to access government procurement opportunities,” he added.
On Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Mwaura maintained that agriculture is a national priority, focusing on both production and value addition, particularly amid ongoing drought conditions.
He announced that the government has released Sh4.1 billion for drought relief in affected counties, supported by encouraging rainfall forecasts.
In addition, the Govt. Spokesperson stated that over six million farmers are registered in the national database to access subsidized inputs, with nearly two million bags of fertilizer in stock and over two million dispatched.
He equally revealed that the government has issued 15.7 million e-vouchers, with more than 330,000 redeemed by nearly 494,000 farmers.
“The Entrepreneur Extension Program engages 9,450 youthful entrepreneurs to strengthen agricultural advisory services,” explained Dr. Mwaura, adding that 1,925 agricultural entrepreneurs are undergoing incubation and mentorship through the Food Systems Resilience Project.
On the other hand, the Govt. Spokesperson outlined significant Infrastructure Development projects including the 750 km Isiolo-Mandera highway under the Africa Gateway Development Project, currently 45 percent complete.
This corridor, according to Dr. Mwaura, will upgrade roads from gravel to bitumen, enhancing mobility and socio-economic integration in northern Kenya.
“The LAPSSET Corridor Project, valued at Sh1.5 trillion, is among the most impactful regional infrastructure initiatives under Africa Agenda 2063, unlocking opportunities across urban and historically underserved areas,” he asserted.
On Economic Growth and Youth Financing, Dr. Mwaura insisted that Kenya’s economy is robust, with a projected growth rate exceeding 5 percent and foreign reserves at a record $2.3 billion.
Likewise, he divulged that the government is releasing Sh255 billion in verified pending payments to stimulate economic activity.
To support young entrepreneurs, Dr. Mwaura said the government offers soft loans of up to Sh2 million at single-digit interest rates, complementing other funding sources.
On Regional and Continental Integration, the Govt. Spokesperson stressed that Kenya reaffirms its commitment to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a key driver of continental prosperity and self-reliance.
He pointed out that President Ruto actively engages African leaders to promote intra-African trade and pragmatic partnerships, a strategy termed ‘Afro-pragmatism’.
In this regard, Dr. Mwaura announced that Kenya will host the East African Business and Investment Summit to strengthen regional trade ties and advance economic integration.
“The country’s diplomatic agenda prioritizes economic diplomacy, diaspora engagement, and strategic global partnerships, positioning Kenya as a premier trade and investment hub,” he emphasized, stressing that these efforts support Africa’s 2063 vision of a united and prosperous continent.
By Michael Omondi
