CHINSALI – Muchinga Province Minister Hon. Njavwa Simutowe has called on young Zambians to rise above challenges and embrace their full potential during Youth Day celebrations held in Chinsali District today.
Under this year’s theme “Arise and Soar,” Hon. Simutowe urged young people to dream boldly and act decisively in shaping a prosperous Zambia. The theme focuses on empowerment through skills development, innovation, and entrepreneurship while celebrating resilience against personal and economic challenges.
“Through purpose, confidence, and deliberate action, I challenge every young person here today to rise above all challenges and soar toward your full, God-given potential,” he declared.
The Minister highlighted the New Dawn Administration’s commitment to youth empowerment through instruments like Bill 7, enabling youth participation in Parliament. He pointed to the historic increase in Constituency Development Fund (CDF) to over K40 million as evidence of this commitment.
Hon. Simutowe urged the youth to utilize skills development bursaries and grants under CDF, noting that 20% of CDF allocation goes to skills bursaries, while 60% and 40% are ring-fenced for youth loans and grants respectively.
The Minister expressed concern over rising mental health challenges and suicide cases among young people, often resulting from alcohol and substance abuse, illicit sexual activities, and early marriages.
He outlined government interventions including the Internship Programme, free education, the Re-Entry Policy, “Keeping Girls in School” initiative, and Cash-for-Work Programme as positive alternatives.
With 2026 being an election year, Hon. Simutowe appealed to youth not to be used as tools for political violence.
“Do not allow yourselves to be used as tools for political violence… Be ambassadors of peace, champions of constructive dialogue, and protectors of our democratic process,” he urged.
The Minister encouraged the youth to continue reflecting on the this year’s Youth Day theme: “Arise and Soar” throughout their journey.
