Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Permanent Secretary for International Relations and Cooperation, Ms. Etambuyu Anamela Gundersen, has called on young people to equip themselves with essential skills to lead, innovate, and execute effectively as they prepare for future leadership roles. Speaking during a Career Youth Talk organized by the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) in commemoration of Zambia Youth Day, Ms. Gundersen highlighted the critical role of youth in shaping the nation’s future. She stressed that young people must be proactive in acquiring knowledge and competencies that allow them to navigate complex challenges and seize opportunities for personal and national growth. Her address encouraged a culture of continuous learning and strategic thinking among the youth. By positioning themselves early, young Zambians can contribute meaningfully to the country’s socio-economic and political development.
During the event, Ms. Gundersen acknowledged that youth unemployment remains a serious concern in Zambia, posing a structural risk to sustainable national development. She noted that high unemployment among young people limits their capacity to participate fully in economic and civic life. Despite these challenges, she commended COMESA for its sustained commitment to youth empowerment and the promotion of regional integration. The Permanent Secretary highlighted initiatives aimed at creating opportunities for skills development, entrepreneurship, and cross-border collaboration. She emphasized that regional partnerships provide a platform for young people to engage in transformative activities that strengthen their professional and leadership capabilities.
Ms. Gundersen further emphasised that youth empowerment is a central pillar of national development under the leadership of the President of the Republic of Zambia, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema. She explained that supporting the youth is not optional but essential for building a resilient, innovative, and competitive society. Programs focused on mentorship, capacity building, and leadership development were identified as crucial mechanisms for ensuring that young people are well-prepared to take on strategic roles in government, business, and civil society. The Permanent Secretary encouraged the youth to embrace these initiatives and use them to acquire practical skills that enhance employability and leadership potential. Her remarks underscored the government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment where young people can thrive and lead.
The Career Youth Talk also provided a platform for dialogue, allowing young participants to interact with leaders and gain insights into career pathways and opportunities for growth. Ms. Gundersen urged the youth to approach learning with a sense of purpose, cultivating skills in innovation, problem-solving, and effective communication. She emphasized that leadership is not only about holding formal positions but also about making an impact in communities, workplaces, and across society. The discussion highlighted the importance of mentorship, networking, and continuous engagement with national and regional development agendas. By taking these steps, young people can position themselves as the next generation of capable and forward-thinking leaders.
Ms. Etambuyu Anamela Gundersen’s address to Zambian youth emphasized the urgent need for skill development, innovation, and proactive leadership preparation. By acknowledging the challenges of youth unemployment and highlighting opportunities through COMESA and national initiatives, she provided a clear roadmap for empowerment. Her call to action aligns with the government’s broader development strategy under President Hakainde Hichilema, which positions youth as a cornerstone of Zambia’s growth. Equipping young people with the knowledge, skills, and mindset necessary for leadership ensures that the country can harness its demographic potential. The event reinforced the message that Zambia’s future success depends on the readiness, ambition, and effectiveness of its youth.