NYOTA Beneficiaries Left Stunned After Ksh 2,100 Is Locked in Ziidi for One Year

A section of the NYOTA programme beneficiaries has raised concerns after receiving notifications that their savings had been automatically invested in a money market fund under the Ziidi platform.

Initially, the notifications, sent via SMS, informed users that the programme had moved their savings into an investment product linked to the M-Pesa ecosystem.

The move split the funds into two portions: one accessible and another locked, thereby triggering debate among beneficiaries over how the decision was made.

“Congratulations NYOTA Beneficiary! Your NYOTA savings of KSh 3,000 has been invested in ZiiDi. KSh 2,100 is locked for 1 yr, KSh 900 is available in ZiiDi MMF,” the message stated.

Additionally, the message directed users on how to access the funds.

“To transact on ZiiDi, go to M-Pesa App > Financial Services > Ziidi or dial 334#,” the message added.

Also Read: Govt Announces Date for Second Phase of NYOTA Fund Disbursement

NYOTA Beneficiaries Question Locked Funds

However, despite the congratulatory tone, several beneficiaries have questioned the decision to lock a significant portion of their savings without prior consultation.

The notification indicates that KSh 2,100 will remain inaccessible for one year, a move that raises concern among users who rely on the funds for immediate needs.

Moreover, some beneficiaries have challenged the lack of clarity on whether participation in the investment was optional, thus intensifying concerns about consent and transparency in the management of public funds.

Programme Pushes Investment Culture

Meanwhile, the move aligns with the government’s broader efforts to promote a savings and investment culture among beneficiaries by channelling funds into a money market fund, which typically offers low-risk returns.

Analysts maintain that although such investments can help grow savings, authorities must ensure clear communication and voluntary participation to build and sustain public trust.

Also Read: Govt Clarifies When NYOTA Beneficiaries Will Get Second Start-up Capital Payment

NYOTA Reactions Remain Divided

As reactions continue to emerge, the development has sparked a wider debate on financial inclusion versus financial control.

While some beneficiaries view the move as a step toward wealth creation, others see it as an imposition on their financial autonomy.

The development comes against the backdrop of the NYOTA fund disbursement rollout, which began its subsequent tranche on April 20, 2026, with the government opting for a nationwide release rather than a phased approach used earlier.

Authorities later assured beneficiaries that all payments would be completed by June 30, 2026, following delays linked to budgetary adjustments.

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A message sent to NYOTA beneficiaries confirms that their savings have been automatically invested in Ziidi MMF, locking a portion of the funds for one year. PHOTO/ FILE