Vice President Mutale Nalumango has emphasized the importance of not only listening to young people but also taking action based on their ideas and opinions. Speaking at the World Youth Day commemoration held at the Lusaka Showgrounds yesterday, Nalumango highlighted the crucial role of youths in shaping the nation’s future.
She noted that when young voices are acknowledged and empowered, communities become stronger and more resilient. “It is with immense joy and deep gratitude that I stand before you today as we gather here to celebrate the energy, passion, and creativity of the Zambian youths under the theme ‘Voices Amplified and Innovations Ignited.’ This theme is a call to action, a challenge to all of us to listen to the voices of our youth,” Nalumango stated.
Youth as Catalysts for Change
The Vice President stressed that young people are at the forefront of innovation and social transformation. She urged policymakers, institutions, and society at large to actively support youth-driven initiatives, ensuring that their contributions translate into tangible development.
Nalumango encouraged young people to seize opportunities in education, entrepreneurship, and leadership, emphasizing that their efforts will shape the nation’s trajectory. She assured them of the government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment where their ideas can thrive.
Government’s Commitment to Youth Development
The Vice President reiterated that the government remains dedicated to youth empowerment through various initiatives, including skills development programs, financial support for young entrepreneurs, and efforts to increase youth participation in governance.
She called on stakeholders, including the private sector and civil society, to invest in youth-led projects and provide platforms for innovation. “The future of our nation lies in the hands of our young people. By amplifying their voices and igniting their innovations, we are securing a brighter, more prosperous Zambia,” she said.
As Zambia marked World Youth Day, Nalumango’s message was clear—youths must not only be heard but must also see their ideas transformed into real opportunities for national growth.