Youths Hail NYOTA Grants As Government Delivers Hope and Opportunity

By Kepher Otieno - Reporter

Kenya, 2 February 2026 - Several youths who benefited from the NYOTA Business Start-Up Capital Grants have praised the government for what they described as a timely and transformative intervention that is already changing their lives and livelihoods.

Ken Ouma said the grant had given him a fresh start and renewed hope for the future.

“I am very grateful to the President for this generous gesture that has enabled me to start my own business. For a long time, many youths like me had good ideas but lacked the capital to implement them,” he said.

He noted that the initiative would significantly reduce youth unemployment by empowering young people to become job creators.

“This support is timely and clearly shows that the government understands the challenges facing the youth. With this grant, I can now be self-reliant and even create opportunities for others,”Ouma added.

Ken also lauded the leadership behind the programme.

“We sincerely thank the President, CS Wycliffe Oparanya, and PS Susan Mangeni for believing in the youth. This project will truly transform lives and restore hope among young people across the country,” he said.

Victor Owino described the NYOTA grant as life-changing, saying it had reshaped his outlook on entrepreneurship.

“I thank the President for this opportunity. The NYOTA grant has given me the confidence to venture into business and work towards a stable and dignified future,” he said.

He observed that the programme was reaching youths who had long been excluded from formal employment.

“Many young people have the energy and innovative ideas but lack financial support. This initiative is bridging that gap and enabling us to contribute meaningfully to the economy,” Owino noted.

Victor further applauded the officials spearheading the programme.

“We commend CS Wycliffe Oparanya and PS Susan Mangeni for ensuring that the project reaches the grassroots. Their commitment will have a lasting impact on our livelihoods,” he said.

Alice Atieno termed the grant a turning point, particularly for young women in business.

“I am very happy and thankful to the President for considering young women like me. This support has enabled me to start a small business that will sustain my family,” she said.

She praised the inclusivity of the initiative.

“The Nyota project demonstrates that the government values both men and women. It is encouraging to see programmes that uplift youths regardless of gender,”Atieno stated.

More from Kenya

Launch of Locally Assembled Isuzu MU-X Signals Drop in New Vehicle Prices in Kenya

Mogadishu Port Records Highest-Ever Monthly Container Volume in January

Alice also acknowledged the leadership driving the project.

“I thank CS Wycliffe Oparanya and PS Susan Mangeni for their dedication. Their efforts will help many youths become independent and productive citizens,” she added.

Mary Odhiambo said the grant had restored hope among young people in her community.

“We are grateful to the President for this generous support. Many youths had lost hope, but this project has given us a reason to dream again,” she said.

She explained that the initiative would have ripple effects at the grassroots.

“When youths are empowered economically, entire communities benefit. This project will help us support our families and improve our living standards,” Odhiambo noted.

Mary also praised the administrators of the programme.

“We appreciate the role played by CS Wycliffe Oparanya and PS Susan Mangeni. Their leadership will ensure the success of this programme and transform the lives of many young people,” she said.

Jenipher Akello said the NYOTA grant had opened new doors for youth entrepreneurship.

“I sincerely thank the President for giving us this opportunity. The grant has enabled me to start a business that I had only planned for years,” she said.

She noted that the programme was encouraging self-employment among the youth.

“Instead of depending on scarce jobs, young people can now create their own sources of income. This is a powerful step towards economic empowerment,” Akello observed.

Juniper explained that by commending the government officials involved.

“We are grateful to CS Wycliffe Oparanya and PS Susan Mangeni for their support and guidance. This project will positively change the lives of many youths across the country,” she said.