Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has sparked a storm of public outrage following remarks made this morning regarding the government's new "Nyota" youth enterprise grant. Addressing beneficiaries who complained that the disbursement amounts were insufficient to start viable businesses, the DP retorted, "If it is too little, go find more money elsewhere."

The comment, perceived by many as tone-deaf amidst a biting cost-of-living crisis, has gone viral on social media. The "Nyota" fund, launched last month, offers grants of between KES 10,000 and KES 50,000 to registered youth groups. However, inflation and the rising cost of goods have rendered these amounts negligible for capital-intensive startups.

A Disconnect with Reality?

Economists argue that the DP's remarks betray a fundamental misunderstanding of the financial barriers facing Kenyan youth. "Telling an unemployed graduate in Kibra to 'find money elsewhere' is akin to telling them to eat cake," said David Ndii, a prominent economist. "Where is 'elsewhere' in an economy shedding jobs?"

• The Numbers: Youth unemployment in Kenya stands at a staggering 35%. The Nyota fund was marketed as a flagship solution, but early reports suggest only 15% of applicants have received funding.
• The Fallout: Opposition leaders have seized on the soundbite, framing it as evidence of the Kenya Kwanza administration's arrogance. "They taxed your housing, they taxed your fuel, and now they mock your poverty," tweeted minority leader Opiyo Wandayi.

Damage Control

Sources within the DP's communication team suggest the statement was taken out of context, insisting Kindiki was encouraging "resourcefulness and supplementary financing." However, the damage may already be done. In a political landscape defined by the "Hustler" narrative, appearing dismissive of the struggling masses is a dangerous gamble.