The World Bank has outlined why it chose to support Kenya through the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) programme, describing youth unemployment as one of the country’s most pressing development challenges.
Speaking during the launch of the initiative in Malindi, Kilifi County, World Bank Country Director for Kenya Qimiao Fan said NYOTA directly responds to Kenya’s high unemployment levels, particularly among young people.
“NYOTA is important because it addresses what I believe is the biggest development challenge Kenya faces today – jobs. This is why we, as the World Bank, decided to support it,” Fan said.
World Bank says jobs are its top priority in Kenya
Fan explained that improving employability sits at the centre of the World Bank’s engagement with Kenya, with a strong focus on job creation.
“The World Bank does only three things in Kenya: jobs, jobs, jobs. In addition to supporting you in implementing NYOTA, our entire program is squarely focused on supporting Kenya to create more inclusive jobs,” he said.
He added that the success of the NYOTA programme will not hinge on how many youths register, but on how effectively it equips beneficiaries to secure jobs, start businesses, and create opportunities for others.
Inside the NYOTA programme
Since its announcement in July 2025, the NYOTA project has taken shape around four key components, including paid on-the-job training, entrepreneurship support, and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) certification.
The World Bank Board approved the project and committed about Ksh29.5 billion to fund the programme over five years, making it one of the largest youth-focused initiatives in the country.
Government begins final round of payments
On disbursement, the government has officially launched the final round of NYOTA programme payments across eight counties, with the process expected to conclude within two weeks.
On Friday, February 6, beneficiaries from Mombasa, Kwale, and Taita Taveta counties will receive their funds in Mombasa.
According to the Principal Secretary, beneficiaries in Wajir County will receive their payments on Wednesday, February 11, while those in Garissa County are scheduled to receive funds on Thursday, February 12.
The NYOTA programme aims to equip Kenyan youth with practical skills, access to financing, and pathways into sustainable employment as the country works to tackle long-standing joblessness.
By Nairobiwire