The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) has formalized partnership with the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports under the World Bank funded NYOTA Programme. The framework contract was formally signed by: Principal Secretary,State Department for Youth Affairs and Creative Economy Fikirini Jacobs Katoi and Chief Executive Officer at the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry KK Mutai. The signing was witnessed by Augustine Mayabi, National Project Manager Nyota Programme and Kihara Njuguna Company Secretary – KNCCI.

Through this partnership, KNCCI has been appointed as the Umbrella Employer Organization (UEO) to implement a national Hands-on Experience Programme targeting 130,000 youth across both the informal (40,000) and formal (90,000) sectors. The programme aims to provide structured workplace placements under artisans and formal employers, supporting skills development and employment pathways for youth.

KNCCI, in collaboration with other partners, will roll out the programme nationwide following a pilot phase in seven counties: Kakamega, Bungoma, Migori, Siaya, Busia, Kisumu, and Vihiga.

The National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) project is a landmark initiative by the Government of Kenya, funded by the World Bank, aimed at transforming the lives of vulnerable youth. Over five years, NYOTA will create employment opportunities, enhance income generation, and promote savings among the youth population