Nairobi Governor Sakaja Johnson has announced that beneficiaries of the Government’s NYOTA Fund in the capital will receive zero-rated county business permits, a move aimed at helping young entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses without the burden of licensing fees.
Speaking during the second tranche disbursement of the NYOTA Programme at Ulinzi Sports Complex on Friday, Sakaja said the county government would support young entrepreneurs beyond providing financial assistance by removing one of the biggest barriers to doing business.
“To the beneficiaries of the NYOTA Fund, we understand the challenges that new business starters face. We will walk with you, and one way is by providing you with a zero-rated business permit. We will get a list from the Ministry of all the beneficiaries from Nairobi, and you will receive a permit at no cost. That way, you will not pay anything, and county enforcement officers will not harass you for operating without a business permit,” Sakaja announced.
Sakaja further revealed that the county is constructing more than 20 modern markets across Nairobi and pledged that NYOTA beneficiaries seeking to expand their enterprises will be given priority when allocating business spaces.
“I have already received the first batch of the list of NYOTA beneficiaries, and I will receive the second one as well. Those who want to grow their businesses will be allocated space in these new markets so they can continue building their enterprises,” he said.
The Governor urged young people not to underestimate the power of starting small, saying every successful business begins somewhere.
“We thank our President for this initiative. Many people have said so many things online, claiming it is not viable. But never despise small beginnings. Our President once sold chickens, and today he leads the country. You too can achieve even greater success. With these funds, you can gradually grow your capital and build a thriving business,” Sakaja added.
President William Ruto, who presided over the event, welcomed Sakaja’s decision to waive business permit fees for NYOTA beneficiaries, describing it as a practical way of supporting youth-led enterprises.
Read Also: Nairobi MCAs In Fresh Bid to Impeach Sakaja
Utawala MCA, Two Others Arrested with Illegal Firearm
“I also urge other governors across the country to embrace the same spirit of supporting young entrepreneurs by issuing zero-rated business permits,” the President said.
The NYOTA Programme seeks to empower young people through access to affordable financing, entrepreneurship training, and business support. The latest disbursement is expected to benefit thousands of youth as the government steps up efforts to tackle unemployment and stimulate the growth of small businesses across the country.
