Mandera, Kenya – October 6, 2025
The Principal Secretary for the State Department of National Government Coordination, Ahmed A. Ibrahim, today officiated the launch of the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) Program in Mandera County, aligning with the directive of His Excellency Dr. William Samoei Ruto, CGH, President of the Republic of Kenya.
The event, held in Mandera, was attended by a diverse group of stakeholders, including the County Secretary, County Commissioner, Members of the National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) Team, County Security Team, Heads of National Government Departments, Members of the County Assembly, County Executive Committee Members, Development Partners, Community and Religious Leaders, Youth Representatives, County Directors, and Departmental Heads.
The NYOTA Program reflects the Kenyan Government’s commitment to fostering inclusivity, fairness, and transparency through collaborative efforts across all levels of administration. Nationwide, the initiative aims to transform the lives of 100,000 young Kenyans by providing opportunities for entrepreneurship and skills development. In each ward, 70 youth will benefit directly, with successful applicants receiving a KSh 50,000 grant to establish small enterprises. Additionally, 90,000 youth across the country will undergo skills development and job training under qualified professionals, equipping them for meaningful employment and entrepreneurial ventures.
In Mandera County, the program will directly impact 2,100 young people across 30 wards. During the launch, Principal Secretary Ibrahim called on leaders, partners, and community champions to mobilize and sensitize youth at the grassroots level to seize this transformative opportunity. He emphasized the importance of the one-week application window, urging young people to apply promptly to benefit from the initiative.
The NYOTA Program is poised to empower Mandera’s youth, fostering economic growth and self-reliance in the region. The County Government of Mandera encourages all eligible youth to take advantage of this life-changing opportunity and contribute to the county’s development.