A young entrepreneur from Garissa County captured the attention of President William Ruto during the NYOTA business empowerment programme after outlining his ambitious plans to grow his milk-vending venture. The event, held at Garissa High School on Wednesday, February 11, brought together hundreds of young beneficiaries set to receive startup capital under the government initiative.
Among them was Omar, a determined businessman who received KSh 22,000 through mobile money as part of the NYOTA capital disbursement. After the funds were sent to his phone, Omar had the rare opportunity to briefly interact with the Head of State.
During their conversation, President Ruto asked the young man about his source of income and how he intended to use the money. Confident and clear in his response, Omar explained that he operates a milk-selling business and planned to reinvest the funds to expand his stock and increase daily sales. He even showed the President his M-Pesa confirmation message as proof that he had received the funds.
Omar’s practical approach and business focus impressed President Ruto, who praised his determination and entrepreneurial spirit. The President encouraged him to remain disciplined and committed to his goals, promising additional support to help him grow his enterprise if he stayed consistent.
The NYOTA programme is designed to empower young people with startup capital to strengthen small businesses and create employment opportunities at the grassroots level. Beneficiaries receive direct financial support aimed at boosting existing ventures or launching new ones.
Omar’s interaction stood out as a highlight of the event, reflecting the programme’s intention to nurture hardworking youth with viable business ideas. His story quickly resonated with attendees, many of whom expressed optimism about transforming their own livelihoods through similar initiatives.
As the programme continues across counties, leaders say such success stories demonstrate the impact of targeted youth empowerment efforts. For Omar, the KSh 22,000 marks not just financial support, but a stepping stone toward building a stronger and more sustainable milk distribution business in Garissa.
