How to Apply for Youth-Reserved Tenders in Kenya | AGPO Guide 2026

The Kenyan government has set aside 30% of all public procurement opportunities exclusively for enterprises owned by youth, women, and persons with disabilities (PWDs) through the Access to Government Procurement Opportunities (AGPO) program . This affirmative action initiative helps young entrepreneurs secure government contracts without competing directly with large, established companies .

Here is your complete step-by-step guide to accessing these reserved tenders.

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Who Qualifies as a Youth-Owned Enterprise?

To qualify for youth-reserved tenders, your enterprise must meet the following criteria :

If you are a person with a disability, the age limit extends to 35 years .

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Step 1: Register Your Business

Before you can apply for AGPO certification, you must have a legally registered business entity. You can register as :

• Sole proprietorship – suitable for individual young entrepreneurs

• Partnership – if you are starting a business with other youth

• Limited company – if you plan to scale and take on larger contracts

For limited companies: You will need to obtain a CR12 form from the Registrar of Companies .

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Step 2: Obtain Your KRA Documents

Visit the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) website to acquire :

• KRA PIN Certificate for your business

• Tax Compliance Certificate – this proves you are up to date with your tax obligations

Both documents are mandatory for AGPO registration and for bidding on any government tender .

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Step 3: Open a Business Bank Account

Open a dedicated bank account for your business and obtain a bank reference letter. This helps establish your financial credibility when bidding for contracts .

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Step 4: Get Professional Certifications (If Applicable)

Depending on the type of tenders you intend to pursue, you may need additional certifications :

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Step 5: Register for AGPO Certification

This is the most critical step. AGPO certification is your ticket to accessing tenders reserved for youth .

Required Documents for Youth AGPO Registration :

How to Register:

Option A: Online

1. Visit the official AGPO portal at www.agpo.go.ke

2. Create an account and complete the online registration form

3. Upload scanned copies of all required documents (original scans required)

4. Submit your application and await approval

Option B: Through Huduma Centre

1. Visit any Huduma Centre near you

2. Trained staff will assist you with the online registration process

3. Bring all your original documents and copies for verification

4. Huduma Centres also offer support for IFMIS and e-GP registration

Book an appointment first: Most Huduma Centres operate on an appointment-only basis. Dial *191# or use the Huduma Service By Appointment portal to book your slot .

What Happens After Registration?

Once approved, you will receive an AGPO Certificate that validates your eligibility to participate in tenders reserved exclusively for youth . The list of registered enterprises is updated regularly on the AGPO website .

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Step 6: Register as a Supplier on e-GP/IFMIS

Government tenders are now managed through the Electronic Government Procurement (e-GP) system. You must register as a supplier on this platform to submit bids .

How to Register on e-GP:

1. Visit www.egpkenya.go.ke

2. Click on the supplier/contractor registration link

3. Create an account and fill in your business details

4. Upload your KRA PIN, Tax Compliance Certificate, and other required documents

5. Submit and await verification

Support: If you encounter issues, visit any Huduma Centre for technical assistance with the e-GP portal .

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Step 7: Find and Apply for Youth-Reserved Tenders

Where to Find Tenders:

How to Identify Youth-Reserved Tenders:

Tenders reserved for youth are clearly marked in the tender notice. Look for:

• “AGPO” or “Youth” in the eligibility section

• Categories specifically flagged as reserved

Example: NACADA Youth-Reserved Categories

The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) recently announced tenders with categories specifically reserved for youth, including :

• Supply and Delivery of Office Stationery and Supplies (Youth)

• Supply and Delivery of Branded Merchandise and Uniforms (Youth)

• Supply and Delivery of Office Furniture and Equipment (Youth)

• Supply and Delivery of Computer Hardware and ICT Items (Youth)

• Provision of Plumbing and Piping Works (Youth)

• Supply and Delivery of Water Storage Tanks (Youth)

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Step 8: Prepare and Submit Your Bid

Follow these best practices when submitting your bid for a youth-reserved tender :

Document Checklist:

• ✅ AGPO Certificate (current and valid)

• ✅ KRA PIN Certificate

• ✅ Valid Tax Compliance Certificate

• ✅ Business Registration Certificate / CR12

• ✅ Company Profile

• ✅ Relevant professional licenses (NCA, ICT Authority, etc.)

• ✅ Bank reference letter

• ✅ Completed tender document forms

Submission Guidelines:

• Read the tender document carefully – follow all instructions

• Label your bid correctly – include the tender number

• Submit on time – late submissions are not accepted under any circumstances

• Physical submissions: Deposit in the designated tender box at the procuring entity’s office

• Online submissions: Upload through the e-GP portal

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Important Tips for Young Entrepreneurs

1. Renew Your Documents Regularly

• AGPO certificates and Tax Compliance Certificates expire

• Set reminders to renew every 11 months to avoid lapses

2. Don’t Overcommit

• Only bid for tenders you have the capacity to deliver

• The government warns against contractors who take on more than they can handle

3. Take Advantage of Training Opportunities

• The government has trained over 600,000 youth on AGPO access through programs like NYOTA Mtaani

• Look for free training sessions and webinars on procurement

4. Consider Joint Ventures

• If you lack capacity for a large tender, consider partnering with other AGPO-registered businesses

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Quick Reference: AGPO Registration Summary