President William Ruto has called on youth to be disciplined with their loans under the Hustler Fund, warning that defaulting on small amounts limits their ability to access larger sums and advance their businesses.
Addressing the crowd during the launch of the NYOTA Program at Mumias Sports Complex in Kakamega County on Friday, the President said borrowers who take small loans and fail to repay only harm their own financial growth.
“Kuna watu walichukua mia tano na wakahepa. Hasara ni yako. Wewe jipange! Kwa sababu sahizi ungekuwa unachukua elfu hamsini lakini kwa sababu ulichukua mia tano, unahangaika nayo. Tumieni akili bwana,” he said.
Ruto assured that the government will not pressure defaulters and that repayment can be done at an individual’s own pace.
Those who have previously missed payments can return to the program and borrow again once they are ready.
“That Sh500 you took and disappeared with—no one is coming after you, relax. Just get your act together. Once you’re back on your feet, come and take Sh1,000, and from there you will keep growing step by step,” the President added.
He stressed that the Hustler Fund is meant to empower small traders, boda boda riders, street vendors, and youth starting small businesses.
The fund’s design allows borrowers to gradually increase their loan amounts as long as repayment is consistent, helping them build credit and scale their operations.
Midway through his speech, Ruto turned attention to the NYOTA Program, which is aimed at equipping youth with training, mentorship, and practical opportunities to generate income.
The initiative integrates skills development, credit access, and enterprise support for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, providing a clear path toward financial independence.
The Sh5 billion program will benefit 100,000 youth nationwide. The President urged eligible young people to register, describing NYOTA as a continuation of the government’s efforts to promote financial inclusion and improve livelihoods.
Ruto encouraged beneficiaries to wisely utilize both Hustler Fund and NYOTA resources. Drawing from his personal experience, he recounted how he once sold chicken by the roadside before ascending to national leadership.
“I used to sell chicken at Sh13 or Sh17, but now I stand before you and tell you I have many chickens. I do not want to say how many. But I want to encourage you that you can start small. There is a future,” he said.
The President also highlighted that small loans should not be underestimated, pointing out that even Sh50,000 can make a meaningful difference when used effectively.
NYOTA is a five-year program backed by the World Bank, focusing on youth employment, income growth, and savings. Its four key pillars are: enhancing employability, expanding job opportunities, supporting youth savings, and strengthening employment systems for young people.
Eligible participants must be aged 18-29, or up to 35 for persons with disabilities, have completed Form 4 or below, and be unemployed or earning low income.
The program employs digital channels, including the *254# mobile platform, to simplify applications and widen access.
