Cabinet Secretary for Cooperative, Micro and Small Enterprises (MSMEs), Wycliffe Oparanya, launched a nationwide entrepreneurship training programme for youth, starting in the Western counties of Busia, Bungoma, Vihiga, and Kakamega.
The initiative, dubbed the “Nyota Programme,” aims to equip an estimated 800,000 young people across the country with essential skills in business planning, financial discipline, and social-emotional learning.
Speaking at the launch event at the Nabongo Cultural Centre in Matungu, CS Oparanya emphasized the critical need to prepare the youth for a changing economic landscape.
“A lot has changed recently. People no longer own large tracts of land, and pressure on resources has increased. The greatest asset one can have now is skills,” Oparanya stated. “We want our people to be self-reliant. With skills, you can work and offer direction in your area of specialization for years without the fear of retirement knocking on your door.”
He stressed that entrepreneurs are the driving force of the national economy and affirmed the Micro and Small Enterprise Authority’s commitment to the program’s full implementation.
The two-month training will be followed by hands-on support from business development experts to help participants incubate their ideas. Upon completion of the training nationwide, President William Ruto is expected to preside over the disbursement of startup capital to the beneficiaries.
“My pride lies in seeing the youthful generation succeed,” Oparanya told the press after the launch, hinting at a broader plan for youth empowerment.
CS Oparanya was accompanied by Hon. Benard Shinali, Chairperson of the departmental committee on trade, among other leaders. He is scheduled to visit other sub-counties tomorrow to continue the program’s rollout.
