By Erestinah Jane, July 10, 2026
Leaders and residents attending the disbursement of the second tranche of the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) Programme funds in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, were left surprised on Friday after one beneficiary revealed that she had established a thriving coffin-making business using financial support received through the government initiative.
The beneficiary shared her success story during the event, explaining that the funding enabled her to start a small enterprise that has since grown into a profitable business, creating a stable source of income for herself and her family.
Her testimony drew mixed reactions from the audience, with many expressing surprise at the unconventional nature of the business. However, government officials praised her entrepreneurial spirit, noting that the programme is designed to empower young people to pursue viable business opportunities across different sectors of the economy.
The NYOTA Programme provides financial support, mentorship, and business development services to youth entrepreneurs, enabling them to establish or expand income-generating ventures. Beneficiaries are encouraged to identify business opportunities within their communities and invest the funds in sustainable enterprises.
Speaking during the event, officials reiterated that the initiative is not limited to specific industries but aims to promote innovation, self-employment, and economic independence among young people.
The woman explained that demand for her products has continued to grow, allowing her business to expand while creating employment opportunities for others in the community. She said the government funding gave her the confidence and capital needed to turn her business idea into reality.
Her story was cited as an example of how the NYOTA Programme is helping young Kenyans transform financial support into sustainable livelihoods through entrepreneurship.
The second phase of the NYOTA Programme has seen thousands of beneficiaries across the country receive grants to support business start-ups and expansion. The initiative forms part of the government’s broader youth empowerment agenda aimed at reducing unemployment, promoting enterprise development, and stimulating local economic growth.
Leaders at the Eldoret event encouraged beneficiaries to invest the funds prudently, stressing that the programme’s long-term success depends on building sustainable businesses capable of generating income, creating jobs, and improving livelihoods across communities.
