Government Condemns Digital Expl0itation, Highlights Youth Empowerment and Social Protection Measures
The Government has strongly condemned a disturbing incident involving a foreign national accused of secretly recording and circulating intimate images of Kenyan women without consent, terming the act a grave violation of dignity, privacy, and national values.
Speaking at Harambee House Annex on Monday, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said the act contravenes constitutional protections on human dignity and privacy and undermines the safety of women and girls.
He affirmed that authorities have launched a coordinated, multi-agency investigation in collaboration with international partners due to the cross-border nature of the case. The suspect will face prosecution under the Penal Code, the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act, and other applicable laws.
The government also announced strengthened policy measures on online safety through the Ministry of Gender, Culture and Children Services, while urging victims to seek assistance via the National Gender-Based Violence Toll-free Helpline 1195.
NYOTA Programme Empowers Youth Nationwide
The spokesperson highlighted progress under the NYOTA (National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement) initiative, part of President William Ruto’s economic inclusion agenda.
The Business Startup Capital component has been rolled out across all 47 counties, benefiting 131,800 young entrepreneurs with grants totaling KSh 2.586 billion. Beneficiaries have also received financial literacy training and mentorship to strengthen enterprise sustainability.
The programme complements national job creation initiatives such as Affordable Housing and Kazi Mtaani.
Under the On-the-Job Experience (OJE) component, supported by the World Bank, 90,000 vulnerable youth aged 18–29 — and up to 35 for persons with disabilities — will receive six-month apprenticeships and a monthly stipend of KSh 6,000. The initiative focuses on technical sectors including mechanics and construction.
With over 880,000 applications received, the programme has drawn significant national interest.
Additionally, the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) component will certify skilled workers such as mechanics, plumbers, and craftsmen who possess hands-on expertise but lack formal accreditation.
Expanded Social Protection and Cash Transfers
The Government is strengthening social protection measures targeting senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and vulnerable communities.
A new roadmap will enroll marginalized populations into cash transfer programmes, supported by an additional KSh 500 million allocation.
Current beneficiaries include:
63,938 persons with severe disabilities
438,804 orphans and vulnerable children
1,213,214 older persons
The implementation of the Persons with Disabilities Act 2025 and the Building Code 2024 will enhance accessibility standards in public infrastructure.
The government also plans to train 600,000 mothers, including sole caregivers, to access procurement opportunities under AGPO.
Drought Response and Rainfall Relief
To address ongoing drought conditions, the Cabinet approved KSh 4.1 billion for response interventions in affected arid and semi-arid regions.
Mandera, Wajir, Kwale, and Kilifi counties remain in the alarm phase, while 12 others are in alert status.
However, recent rainfall reported by the Kenya Meteorological Department has brought optimism, with improved prospects for farmers and expected relief from severe drought conditions.
Commitment to Inclusive Growth
The Government reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding citizens’ dignity, strengthening economic empowerment, and expanding social protection systems to ensure inclusive national development.