By Jane Chanda
The huge turn up of UPND youths at the Showgrounds today for Youth Day commemorations impressed Lusaka provincial chairperson Obvious Mwaliteta so much so that he discounted the chances of the Tonse Alliance and other competitors.
Commenting during a compact photo session at the event, Mwaliteta said he was impressed by the massive turnout of youths at the commemoration of Youth Day, saying that it was a clear indication of the ruling party’s dominance in the province.
Speaking at the commemoration of the Youth Day celebration under the theme “Voices Amplified, Innovation Ignited” at the showground in Lusaka, Mwaliteta said the Tonse Alliance had no chance of winning in Lusaka Province, implying that they were no match for the UPND’s popularity and strength in the province.
“And you see this crowd and then you hear someone say Tonse, Tonse. Tonse uko kwine! UPND will take up all seats,” Mwaliteta said.
And Vice-President Nalumango said Zambia’s youths must take action to address rising mental health issues related to alcohol and substance abuse among their peers.
Nalumango talked about the importance of creating an enabling environment that fostered unity, inclusivity and innovation, highlighting the government’s commitment to supporting youths by investing in education and skills training.
“The future is in your hands,” Nalumango urged the youths.
She called on them to use their voice to inspire skills to innovate and energy to build the nation.
She noted that alcohol and drug abuse had become a threat among youths, and mental health issues were on the rise but, assured that the UPND government had recognised these problems and was taking action.
“Let us work together with the youth and think critically on how these young people can be helped,” said Nalumango.
He also emphasised the need for collective action to address the challenges facing Zambian youths.
Representing Lusaka Province minister Sheal Mulyata, minister of Green Economy and Environment Mike Mposha said the government would give the necessary support to youths to achieve full potential.
Mposha said the government’s commitment to empowering youths was a key priority, with a focus on creating an enabling environment that fostered unity, inclusivity and innovation.
“To achieve this goal, the government will invest in education and skills training, providing youths with the necessary tools to succeed, whether they are disabled or not,” Mposha said.
United Nations(UN) representative James Wakiaga emphasised the UN’s commitment to investing in Zambia’s youth, providing them with the necessary support to turn their ideas into reality.
Wakiaga expressed his appreciation for President Hakainde Hichilema’s efforts in promoting youth empowerment and highlighted the importance of empowering young people, enabling them to make meaningful contributions across various sectors, including the media.
He said by so doing, youths would be better equipped to take on leadership roles and drive development in their communities.
“Youth empowerment is crucial for Zambia’s future, and Wakiaga stressed that it’s essential to provide young people with sponsorship opportunities, regardless of their abilities. This inclusive approach will ensure that all youths have the chance to reach their full potential, driving positive change and development in Zambia,” said Wakiaga.
