By Monica Nashon
The government has so far disbursed Sh3 billion to young entrepreneurs under the Youth Employment and Opportunities Programme (YEOP) to empower them.
More than 8,000 youths in Kisii, Migori and Nyamira counties are benefiting from the latest phase of the initiative.
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Speaking during disbursement of the funds in Kisii, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba said over 2,000 of the beneficiaries were receiving support for the first time, while more than 6,000 had qualified for a second tranche after successfully implementing their initial business projects.
Ogamba said each beneficiary receives Sh50,000, of which Sh44,000 is invested in business activities while Sh6,000 is set aside as savings.
“This is actually a working programme and it is a grant. We are giving young people a platform so that they can grow economically,” said the CS.
The programme targets youth aged between 18 and 29 years, while persons living with disabilities are eligible up to the age of 35 years.
Ogamba noted that the initiative primarily focuses on young people who did not pursue education beyond secondary school.
The CS said the programme is part of the government’s broader strategy to tackle youth unemployment and promote entrepreneurship among young Kenyans.
“We remain committed to creating more opportunities for young people across the country and empowering them to become economically self-reliant,” he said.
Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi hailed the programme as a transformative intervention that is helping young people establish sustainable livelihoods.
“This is an important day in the lives of our youths. This programme is transforming lives and giving young people hope for the future,” said Wandayi.
The latest disbursement comes as the government scales up youth empowerment initiatives aimed at increasing access to capital, encouraging savings and supporting the growth of small businesses.
Officials said beneficiaries are expected to use the funds to start or expand income-generating ventures, with the programme designed to enhance financial inclusion and create employment opportunities at the grassroots level.
