Sakaja waives two-year business permits for Nyota Fund youth

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has announced a two-year waiver on business permits and licenses for Nyota Fund beneficiaries setting up businesses in the city. The announcement was made during the distribution of the fund at Kasarani Stadium, attended by youths from Nairobi, Kiambu, and Kajiado counties.

Sakaja said the waiver aims to encourage entrepreneurship, create employment opportunities, and provide a conducive environment for young business owners. “We will waive all permits and licenses for the first two years. You will not be intimidated by county officers,” he said.

The governor added that the county, in partnership with the national government, is constructing markets to provide safe, accessible spaces for youth enterprises. The move comes after repeated complaints from young entrepreneurs that start-up capital was undermined by high permit and license fees.

Beneficiaries of the NYOTA Fund will now legally operate their businesses without paying county fees for two years, while still enjoying government support and access to infrastructure designed to help them grow. Sakaja encouraged youths to leverage the opportunity and contribute to Nairobi’s economic development.

President William Ruto launched the NYOTA Fund to provide start-up capital for young entrepreneurs across Kenya, targeting over 800,000 youth with Ksh 50,000 each. At Kasarani, over Ksh 700 million was distributed, with each beneficiary receiving up to Ksh 25,000 initially, while the remaining capital will be disbursed after business establishment.

This initiative positions Nairobi as a hub for youth innovation and entrepreneurship, combining financial support, regulatory relief, and infrastructure development to stimulate business growth among young people.