Ruto Announces 113,000 Jobs for Youth, Revamps Nyota Programme

President William Ruto has announced 113,000 job opportunities for young people across the country.

Speaking during International Youth Day celebrations in Kakamega County on August 12, 2025, Ruto said the initiative will significantly address youth unemployment nationwide.

“Through the Climate Worxs-driven projects, we are pleased to report that 45,000 young people have been engaged in the Nairobi River regeneration initiative. This programme will be rolled out across the country through an expanded road works programme, providing opportunities for 113,000 youths — including 4,000 in Kakamega County,” Ruto said.

Additionally, Ruto announced that the new Kandarasi Mtaani programme will employ an additional 200,000 young people.

Ruto said the government, through the Public Service Commission, has begun the process of hiring 4,000 graduates for the Affordable Housing Programme, where they will work under the supervision of professional firms already contracted by the state.

Ruto Announces Nyota Programme

Under the Nyota Programme, the President announced new opportunities for young people in four categories;

1. Basic Skills Training

Ruto announced opportunities for the young people who have completed Form 4 and lack basic skills. He stated that in Phase One, 90,000 youths aged 18 to 29 years will receive training while earning a stipend for one year. 

• For the first 6 months, the government will cover transport costs to and from the training centers.
• For the next 6 months, they will be placed in apprenticeships with a stipend.

“We will cover your transport to and from the training for six months, and for the next six months, we will connect you to an apprenticeship with a stipend,” Ruto said.

2. Certification for Skilled Workers

For 20,000 young people who already have skills—such as plumbing or electrical work—but lack certification, the government will assess them within one month and award them official certificates.

Also Read: Ruto Announces 4,000 Paid Internships Under Affordable Housing

3. Support for Young Entrepreneurs

At the same time, 100,000 youth will be selected to receive a grant of Ksh 50,000 each, along with mentorship to grow their businesses. He also stated that 1 million youth have already registered.

4. Digital and Financial Literacy

The program will help 600,000 youth acquire digital and financial literacy to access government tenders, participate in an online marketplace, and benefit from KSh1 billion in funding.

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