13/03/2026
Luapula Youth-led Organisation Consortium Pushes for Decentralized Youth Opportunities as Zambia Marks National Youth Day
As part of the commemoration of National Youth Day, a consortium of youth-led organizations in Luapula Province issued a press statement reflecting on this year’s theme, “Arise and Soar,” and the important role young people continue to play in contributing to national development in Zambia.
While the consortium commended the Government for its ongoing efforts to empower young people across the country through various initiatives and programs, it also took the opportunity to highlight several observations and make recommendations aimed at enhancing the inclusion of young people in national development programs. These recommendations were directed to the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts in order to ensure that opportunities reach young people in all provinces.
Among the key issues raised was the need to strengthen and decentralize activities surrounding National Youth Week, which takes place in the lead-up to National Youth Day. The consortium observed that National Youth Day commemorations and related youth activities are often concentrated in Lusaka, where events such as career fairs, entrepreneurship exhibitions, and youth innovation platforms are organized. While these initiatives are commendable, the consortium respectfully appealed for similar programming to be extended to provincial hubs so that young people across the country may equally benefit from such opportunities.
The consortium emphasized that every province deserves a well-coordinated and dignified Youth Week that celebrates and promotes the talents, innovations, and aspirations of young people within their respective communities.
In addition, the youth organizations recommended that the National Youth Indaba, which is a promising platform for dialogue between young people and policymakers, should also be decentralized. The consortium proposed the introduction of Provincial Youth Indabas across the country to create more opportunities for engagement between young people and lawmakers. Such initiatives, they noted, would strengthen dialogue, improve policy responsiveness, and promote social cohesion.
The consortium also took the opportunity to appeal to Government in light of the highly anticipated Luapula Investment Expo scheduled to take place from April 20th to 24th. The youth organizations called on authorities to prioritize local young people, particularly those in the creative arts and media sectors, to participate in covering the event. They noted that such opportunities are important for exposure, professional development, and creating platforms where young entrepreneurs can market their businesses and expand their networks.
Furthermore, the consortium recommended that the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts consider establishing a National Youth Technical Advisory Committee composed of representatives from each province. The proposed committee would serve as an advisory body to the Ministry, helping to strengthen youth representation in planning, programming, and policy implementation related to youth development.
The youth leaders also acknowledged the Government’s initiative aimed at empowering young people through motorbike distribution programs as a strategy to address youth unemployment. While the initiative has created opportunities in several parts of the country, the consortium respectfully requested clarity on how young people in Luapula Province can also benefit from this empowerment program.
Motorbike riding, they noted, has proven to be an important source of livelihood for many young people, particularly young men, as it keeps them productively engaged and helps reduce social challenges such as alcohol and substance abuse, theft, and other social vices that affect their lives.
Additionally, the consortium appealed for targeted financial support for youth entrepreneurs operating small businesses such as mobile money booths, saloons, and barbershops. Many of these young entrepreneurs face financial constraints that limit their ability to expand their businesses. The youth leaders proposed the introduction of small grant facilities or accessible loan support that could empower these entrepreneurs to grow their enterprises and create employment opportunities for others.
The consortium expressed sincere appreciation to Prime TV Zambia for covering the press statement and ensuring that the voices of young people are amplified and heard by policymakers.
The youth consortium is comprised of the following organizations:
• YouthConnect Mansa – Luapula Initiative Organisation
• Born for Greatness Arts Initiative
• Changing Mindset Group
• Chembe District Youth Platform
The consortium reaffirmed its belief that the recommendations presented are in the best interest of young people across the country, particularly those in provinces such as Luapula who often have limited access to national platforms and opportunities.
As the nation commemorates National Youth Day, the consortium reiterated its commitment to advancing the interests, aspirations, and meaningful participation of young people in national development, encouraging youths across the country to rise, take responsibility, and truly “Arise and Soar.”
We are a Youth Powerhouse🇿🇲🌍
