SPECIAL Assistant to the President for Finance and Investment, Jito Kayumba, has revealed that President Hakainde Hichilema is spearheading efforts to connect financial institutions and employers to the Imisepela application to expand opportunities for young people. The platform is designed to provide access to jobs and loans while helping businesses participate in corporate social responsibility by posting available positions and financial services. Mr Kayumba emphasized that the President has called for a meeting this month with banks, employers, and other financiers to integrate them as partners on Imisepela. This move is aimed at creating a seamless bridge between young job seekers and the institutions that can provide employment or financial support. The initiative reflects a targeted approach to youth empowerment and economic inclusion in Zambia.
The Imisepela application is not just a job portal; it is also a tool for development planning. According to Mr Kayumba, the platform provides insights into the concentration of unemployment, showing where services or interventions are most needed. By mapping data on job-seeking youth, the application allows government and private institutions to plan and implement targeted programs that address specific community needs. This dual functionality enhances Imisepela’s value, making it both a career development tool and a strategic instrument for national planning. As more young people use the platform, the reach and impact of these initiatives are expected to increase.
Mr Kayumba also highlighted that the platform has formalized partnerships with key institutions. A memorandum of understanding has been signed with the Ministry of Labour and Social Security to offer apprenticeship programs through Imisepela. In addition, multiple government agencies, including Smart Zambia and the Ministry of Sport, Youth and Arts, are gradually linking their grant programs and other opportunities to the platform. This creates a one-stop digital ecosystem where youth can access various forms of support, from training and internships to grants and employment. The growing number of institutional linkages indicates a coordinated effort to maximize the platform’s potential for youth empowerment.
The Imisepela application uses artificial intelligence to enhance user experience and efficiency. Mr Kayumba explained that the app can filter opportunities based on individual eligibility, ensuring that young people only see jobs or loans they qualify for. For instance, if a youth does not meet a 5-10 year experience requirement for a particular position, the AI will automatically suggest alternatives suited to their profile. This personalization makes the platform more user-friendly and effective in matching youth with realistic opportunities. Continuous refinement of the AI functionality will further ensure that the platform remains relevant, responsive, and capable of meeting the evolving needs of young Zambians.
By integrating financial institutions, employers, and government programs into Imisepela, the platform aims to create a comprehensive ecosystem for youth development. It addresses critical gaps in access to employment, training, and finance while providing data that can guide national development planning. The initiative represents a strategic effort to use technology to empower young people and improve economic participation. As the platform expands and more partners come on board, Imisepela is poised to become a central hub for opportunities, fostering inclusive growth and sustainable development in Zambia. This proactive approach underscores the government’s commitment to youth advancement and the creation of meaningful pathways to employment and financial independence.