Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has criticised the government’s use of the NYOTA Fund programme, saying it is a World Bank–supported initiative that is being implemented in several African countries and should not be politicised for electoral gain.
Speaking on the programme, Gachagua noted that NYOTA is not unique to Kenya, pointing out that it is also being rolled out in countries such as Angola, Nigeria, Senegal, Benin and Togo. He questioned why, unlike in those nations, Kenya’s leadership appears to be turning the initiative into campaign-style rallies.
“The NYOTA programme is a World Bank programme happening in other African countries like Angola, Nigeria, Senegal, Benin and Togo, yet we have not seen their presidents turn this into re-election campaign rallies,” Gachagua said. He argued that development programmes funded by international partners should be implemented professionally and insulated from partisan politics to protect their credibility and intended beneficiaries.
Gachagua warned that politicising such initiatives risks undermining public trust and could jeopardise relationships with development partners who expect accountability, transparency and non-partisan implementation.
Former Attorney General Justin Muturi has also weighed in on the NYOTA programme, raising concerns over governance and accountability. Muturi cautioned that while youth-focused empowerment funds are important, their management must strictly adhere to the law and established frameworks. He emphasised that public officials should avoid using government or donor-funded programmes to advance personal or political interests.
Muturi further noted that clear guidelines are needed to ensure the funds reach deserving beneficiaries and are not distorted by political interference. According to him, strong oversight mechanisms are essential to prevent misuse and to guarantee that such programmes achieve their intended social and economic impact.
The remarks by Gachagua and Muturi add to a growing debate over the intersection of development programmes and politics, with calls for the NYOTA Fund to remain focused on youth empowerment rather than political mobilization.