Several young beneficiaries of the NYOTA Business Start-Up Capital Grants have applauded the Federal Government, describing the initiative as a timely intervention already reshaping their economic prospects and restoring hope among unemployed youths.
The beneficiaries said the grants are helping them turn long-held business ideas into reality, while creating opportunities for self-reliance and job creation at the grassroots.
Ken Ouma, one of the recipients, said the support had given him a fresh start after years of struggling to raise capital.
“For a long time, many young people like me had viable business ideas but no funds to execute them. This grant has given me the opportunity to start my own venture and build a better future,” he said.
He noted that empowering youths with start-up capital would help tackle unemployment by enabling them to become job creators rather than job seekers.
Similarly, Victor Owino described the NYOTA grant as life-changing, saying it had boosted his confidence to venture into entrepreneurship.
“This opportunity has encouraged me to pursue business with renewed determination. Many youths have the drive and ideas but lack financial backing. This programme is bridging that gap,” he said.
Owino added that the initiative was particularly impactful for young people who had struggled to access formal employment opportunities.
For Alice Atieno, the grant represents a turning point, especially for young women striving for economic independence.
“This support has enabled me to start a small business that will help sustain my family. It is encouraging to see programmes that uplift both men and women,” she said, praising the inclusiveness of the scheme.
Mary Odhiambo said the intervention had revived hope among youths in her community.
“Many young people had almost given up, but this project has given us a reason to dream again. When youths are empowered economically, entire communities benefit,” she said.
She stressed that the ripple effects of the programme would be felt beyond individual beneficiaries, as more families gain stable sources of income.
Also speaking, Jenipher Akello said the grant had opened doors she once thought were out of reach.
“I had planned to start a business for years but lacked the means. This support has made it possible and encouraged many youths to look towards self-employment,” she said.
The beneficiaries collectively commended the government officials overseeing the programme, noting that effective implementation at the grassroots would ensure long-term impact.
Observers say the NYOTA initiative reflects growing efforts to address youth unemployment through enterprise development, with the potential to stimulate local economies and foster inclusive growth if sustained.
