PS Fikirini Drums Support for NYOTA Program

By George Otieno

Email, thecoastnewspaper@gmail.com

State department for youth affairs and creative economy principal secretary Fikirini Jacobs has challenged youths in the Coast region to participate in the national youth opportunities towards advancement (NYOTA) empowerment program recently launched.

The PS said it was disheartening that the region lags behind in every major national discourse including development urging the locals to be proactive.

Speaking during the Vijana na Blue Economy, Mombasa County 2nd Edition at the Technical University of Mombasa on October 9, 2025, the PS said pro-activeness would see the region rise from its slumber.

He drummed up support for the NYOTA program saying it would be an economic game changer to young people in the country insisting that an empowered youth is the greatest resource for both the present and the future of our nation.

According to him history has consistently shown that investment in youth empowerment always yields remarkable dividends, particularly in driving innovation and ensuring long-term economic sustainability.

“This afternoon at the Technical University of Mombasa, I had the pleasure of interacting with our young innovators during an exhibition that showcased their creativity and ingenuity in various blue economy–related fields. It was inspiring to witness their passion, fresh ideas, and commitment to contributing to national development through innovation and enterprise.”

The PS emphasized the critical role of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in strengthening the economy highlighting how the NYOTA project would see the growth of self-employment.

He urged the youths to pursue master craftsmen certification, which he added was an important step that would not only enhance their skills but also enable them to train and mentor other young people.

“The era of dismissing such jobs are long over. I urge you, even if people talk behind your back, focus and go to a technical college and learn some skills, I assure you, in years to come, you will have achieved a lot.”

The government plans to empower 820,000 young people to benefit from the Ksh20 billion youth project set aside.

The program will first train qualified youths before disbursement of the billions.

“Through such initiatives, we can build a chain of empowerment that uplifts communities and secures a sustainable future for all.”

His sentiments were echoed by Pwani Youth Network chief executive officer (CEO) Alfred Sigo who urged young Kenyans to delve into the blue economy sector to be self-employed and sufficient.

Sige whose network recycles waste said the blue economy has potential for making young people self-sufficient and underscoring the need to create more opportunities for others.

“It’s important to take advantage of the blue economy from fishing, marine and recycling to create employment in order to decrease the level of unemployment in the country.”

The CEO appealed to the GEN-Z to register as voters in the ongoing exercise in order to fulfil their civic duties in 2027.

“You can only see the change you want through the ballot. I beseech my fellow young Kenyans to register as voters so that our voices can be heard in 2027.”