President Ruto Presides Over NYOTA Business Start-Up Capital Disbursement in Malindi

MSEA DG Henry Rithaa receives President William Ruto in Malindi

H.E. Dr. William Ruto, CGH, President of the Republic of Kenya, accompanied by Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki, today arrived at the Malindi Waterfront to preside over the  NYOTA Business Start-Up Capital Disbursement ceremony.

The programme targets beneficiaries drawn from **60 wards across Kilifi, Tana River, and Lamu counties**, as part of the Government’s broader agenda to empower youth and support grassroots enterprise development.

Speaking at the event, Principal Secretary, State Department for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Development, Ms. Susan Auma Mang’eni, noted that beneficiaries will receive an initial tranche of  Kshs. 22,000 and subsequently undergo structured mentorship programmes to enhance business sustainability and growth.

She further highlighted additional financing and support opportunities available to entrepreneurs through the Uwezo Fund, Youth Enterprise Development Fund, Women Enterprise Fund, and Kenya Industrial Estates (KIE), aimed at scaling enterprises and strengthening value chains.

Addressing the gathering, the Cabinet Secretary for Cooperatives and MSMEs Development, Dr. Wycliffe Oparanya, urged young entrepreneurs to uphold integrity, build  strong business networks, and embrace collaboration as essential pillars for sustainable enterprise growth.

 “Entrepreneurship thrives on discipline, trust, and cooperation. Saving, financial prudence, and ethical business practices are critical drivers of long-term success and job creation,” said Dr. Oparanya.

The NYOTA Business Start-Up Capital initiative is a flagship government programme designed to stimulate entrepreneurship, reduce unemployment, and promote inclusive economic growth by equipping young people with capital, skills, and access to markets.

The Malindi disbursement marks a significant milestone in expanding economic opportunities across the Coast region and reaffirming the Government’s commitment to empowering MSMEs as engines of national development.