The 2025/2026 budget, unveiled by Cabinet Secretary for the National Treasury and Economic Planning, Hon. John Mbadi Ng’ongo, prioritizes young people as key beneficiaries. Presenting the Ksh 4.29 trillion spending plan in the National Assembly, CS Mbadi highlighted that the budget aims to revive the economy, create jobs, and support small businesses.

Young Kenyans stand to gain significantly from the budget, with billions of shillings allocated to sectors that empower and build the capacity of this important demographic group.

The education sector received Ksh 702.7 billion, which includes Ksh 41.5 billion for Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) loans, Ksh 16.9 billion for university scholarships, and Ksh 7.7 billion for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) capitation and scholarships. An additional Ksh 7.2 billion has been set aside for recruiting intern teachers, with support for junior secondary schools.

The Housing and Urban Development sector was allocated Ksh 128.3 billion to promote affordable housing. This sector is a major source of employment for youth in construction and local manufacturing.

Healthcare and Social Support received Ksh 138.1 billion, including Ksh 6.2 billion for coordinating Universal Health Coverage, Ksh 13.1 billion for primary healthcare, and Ksh 430 million for medical insurance for vulnerable groups. Medical interns will benefit from Ksh 4.3 billion allocated directly to support young medical graduates.

Investments in the Digital Superhighway total Ksh 12.7 billion, targeting ICT infrastructure, digital hubs, and the creative economy. This funding supports youth employment in digital jobs, music, design, and animation.

CS Mbadi also announced an additional Ksh 300 million for the Hustler Fund, which has already provided affordable credit to over 26 million people, mainly youth and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

Further allocations include Ksh 308 million for the Youth Enterprise Development Fund, Ksh 550 million for entrepreneurship centres, and Ksh 1.3 billion to enhance rural financial inclusion