By I, KNA
The Principal Secretary for the State Department for Mining, Harry Mutai, has challenged Kenyans to embrace and support the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) initiative, saying it has the potential to address challenges facing young people across the country.
Speaking at Kitale National Polytechnic during a sensitization and rollout forum, Mutai expressed concern over the slow uptake of the programme in some counties and urged stakeholders to intensify awareness efforts to ensure full participation.
“We must ensure that every eligible young person, whether in rural villages, marginalized areas, or informal settlements, benefits from this initiative. No youth should be left behind,” he said.
Trans Nzoia County has been allocated 1,450 slots to be distributed across its 25 wards, with each ward expected to register 58 beneficiaries. So far, a total of 2,700 applicants have submitted their requests for consideration.
Hailing NYOTA as a game changer in addressing youth unemployment, Mutai said the initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to create jobs, promote inclusivity, and ensure transparency in empowering vulnerable youth at the grassroots.
He explained that the project’s main goal is to provide employment opportunities, help the youth earn an income, encourage saving, and strengthen youth employment systems and project management across the country.
“This project is not just about giving money; it is about giving hope,” Mutai stated. “It has been deliberately designed to help young Kenyans earn, save, and build sustainable livelihoods through meaningful work and financial empowerment.”
He noted that many young people have innovative ideas but lack startup capital and mentorship, adding that the NYOTA initiative will offer them the necessary foundation to realize their potential. Mutai also cautioned applicants against multiple submissions, warning that those who reapply after their initial registration risk disqualification.
Local leaders attending the event thanked the government for rolling out the NYOTA programme, describing it as a timely intervention in addressing youth unemployment. They, however, appealed for an increase in the number of slots to accommodate more beneficiaries, citing Trans Nzoia’s large and diverse population.