Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has accused opposition leaders of inciting young people to engage in destructive activities instead of empowering them to build sustainable livelihoods, warning that such actions threaten national cohesion and development.
Speaking in Archers Post, Samburu County, during the launch of the fifth disbursement of the NYOTA business start-up capital, Kindiki urged political leaders to redirect their energies toward supporting youth empowerment initiatives.
“Our opponents should stop inciting the youth to destroy the country and to attack their rivals instead of supporting them to build better livelihoods,” Kindiki said, in remarks that appeared to directly challenge opposition mobilization tactics.
The event marked the release of Sh103.9 million to 4,159 young entrepreneurs drawn from Samburu, Isiolo, Laikipia and Marsabit counties.
The Deputy President described young people as one of Kenya’s most valuable assets, noting that while many countries are grappling with ageing populations, Kenya enjoys a youthful and energetic demographic capable of driving economic growth if properly supported.
“Young people are a great asset of our country because many countries have ageing population but ours is young and energetic and willing to work to build our country,” he said.
Kindiki used the occasion to highlight the government’s investment in youth-led enterprises through the NYOTA programme, which targets skilled young people engaged in entrepreneurship.
He said the initiative reflects the administration’s broader strategy to address unemployment and unlock the potential of young Kenyans across various sectors.
According to the Deputy President, the programme recognises the diverse talents of the youth, ranging from academics and sports to business, and seeks to provide practical support to help them translate their skills into sustainable income.
“Use your youth wisely. The NYOTA grant is designed to uplift the youth who are skilled in entrepreneurship,” Kindiki said, adding that the government remains committed to nurturing youth talent nationwide.
Under the current phase of the programme, each beneficiary receives Sh50,000 as start-up capital to either launch or expand a small business.
Kindiki dismissed criticism from those who have questioned the impact of the amount, insisting that the funds can be transformative when applied effectively.
“We are giving 50,000 shillings as start-up capital. It will make a huge difference in their businesses,” he said, describing the grant as a foundation upon which young entrepreneurs can build viable ventures.
The Deputy President assured beneficiaries that the government will continue to engage and support them beyond the initial funding, emphasizing that the NYOTA initiative is part of a long-term approach to youth empowerment and economic inclusion.
The disbursement in Archers Post represents the fifth phase of the programme, as the government rolls out targeted financial support to young entrepreneurs across different regions in a bid to spur grassroots economic growth and reduce youth vulnerability to political manipulation.
