NYOTA project launches mentorship for 122,000 beneficiaries with 4,879 trainers
The Kenyan government's National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement NYOTA Project is commencing mandatory mentorship sessions for over 122,000 Business Support beneficiaries on Monday, August 10, 2026. This follows the disbursement of start-up capital grants to these beneficiaries on July 10, 2026. The project, which began in March 2025, targets young Kenyans across 1,450 wards. To support the beneficiaries, 4,879 mentors have been engaged nationwide, with each mentor guiding a maximum of 20 mentees. The sessions will cover various aspects including business site visits, cross-peer mentorship, and market linkages. Completion of this mentorship program is a mandatory requirement for accessing further government support. Additionally, the government is developing blended financing products for NYOTA Business Support beneficiaries and working with county governments on business license waivers. Separately, the government plans to roll out Access to Government Procurement Opportunities AGPO training next month for over 600,000 young entrepreneurs. Socio-Emotional Skills Development training is also ongoing in 18 counties, with participants transitioning into a five-month apprenticeship after completion to gain hands-on industry experience and occupational skills.
