Story
23 March 2026
UN Zambia Calls on Youth to Arise and Soar at Lusaka Youth Day Celebrations
The celebration served as the highlight of National Youth Week, a countrywide series of events honouring the creativity, resilience, and aspirations of young people in Zambia. In the days leading up to 12 March 2026, young Zambians took part in entrepreneurship exhibitions, sports activities, and community projects, all building up to the national commemoration.
The highlight of the day was a spectacular and colourful march past led by the Zambia Defence Forces and a lively troupe of majorettes. Various youth groups followed in synchronised formations. The rhythmic drumbeats, cheers, and waving banners created a powerful visual symbol of unity and ambition, young people quite literally rising and soaring.
In his earlier address during the National Youth Week build-up, President Hakainde Hichilema called on young people to embrace discipline, innovation, and responsibility. “Young people must embrace diligence, innovation and discipline,” he said, urging them to avoid harmful activities and take advantage of opportunities being created for them. His message echoed strongly throughout the Youth Day celebrations.
Speaking on behalf of the UN Resident Coordinator, UNICEF Zambia Representative Dr Saja Abdullah reaffirmed the United Nations’ commitment to youth empowerment. “This week has shown us the creativity and determination of Zambia’s youth. The UN remains committed to ensuring that young people have access to opportunities, skills, and platforms to lead,” she said. She stressed that partnerships between government, the private sector, and development agencies are essential to unlocking youth potential.
Representing the Vice President, W. K. Mutale Nalumango, at the event was Lusaka Province Minister Sheal Mulyata who commended young people for their active participation. “You are not just the leaders of tomorrow, you are the drivers of today’s development. Government remains committed to creating an enabling environment for you to thrive,” she said, drawing loud applause.
The event also amplified grassroots voices. One young participant shared, “This day inspires me to believe that my ideas matter. We are ready to contribute to Zambia’s growth if given the chance.”
From the financial sector, Mr. Kalengo S. Simukoko, the Chief Credit Risk Officer, ZANACO representative, emphasised the importance of economic inclusion. “Empowering youth through financial literacy, access to capital, and mentorship is critical. When young people succeed, the nation prospers,” the representative noted.
As performances, exhibitions, and networking sessions continued throughout the day, a clear message emerged: Zambia’s youth are not waiting for the future; they are actively shaping it.
Closing the event, there was a call to action. Young people were urged to continue rising, innovating, and collaborating across sectors, while stakeholders were called upon to expand investments in youth-focused programs. In the spirit of “Arise and Soar,” the message was clear: Zambia’s youth have the vision and drive; now is the time for sustained support to help them reach even greater heights.
The highlight of the day was a spectacular and colourful march past led by the Zambia Defence Forces and a lively troupe of majorettes. Various youth groups followed in synchronised formations. The rhythmic drumbeats, cheers, and waving banners created a powerful visual symbol of unity and ambition, young people quite literally rising and soaring.
In his earlier address during the National Youth Week build-up, President Hakainde Hichilema called on young people to embrace discipline, innovation, and responsibility. “Young people must embrace diligence, innovation and discipline,” he said, urging them to avoid harmful activities and take advantage of opportunities being created for them. His message echoed strongly throughout the Youth Day celebrations.
Speaking on behalf of the UN Resident Coordinator, UNICEF Zambia Representative Dr Saja Abdullah reaffirmed the United Nations’ commitment to youth empowerment. “This week has shown us the creativity and determination of Zambia’s youth. The UN remains committed to ensuring that young people have access to opportunities, skills, and platforms to lead,” she said. She stressed that partnerships between government, the private sector, and development agencies are essential to unlocking youth potential.
Representing the Vice President, W. K. Mutale Nalumango, at the event was Lusaka Province Minister Sheal Mulyata who commended young people for their active participation. “You are not just the leaders of tomorrow, you are the drivers of today’s development. Government remains committed to creating an enabling environment for you to thrive,” she said, drawing loud applause.
The event also amplified grassroots voices. One young participant shared, “This day inspires me to believe that my ideas matter. We are ready to contribute to Zambia’s growth if given the chance.”
From the financial sector, Mr. Kalengo S. Simukoko, the Chief Credit Risk Officer, ZANACO representative, emphasised the importance of economic inclusion. “Empowering youth through financial literacy, access to capital, and mentorship is critical. When young people succeed, the nation prospers,” the representative noted.
As performances, exhibitions, and networking sessions continued throughout the day, a clear message emerged: Zambia’s youth are not waiting for the future; they are actively shaping it.
Closing the event, there was a call to action. Young people were urged to continue rising, innovating, and collaborating across sectors, while stakeholders were called upon to expand investments in youth-focused programs. In the spirit of “Arise and Soar,” the message was clear: Zambia’s youth have the vision and drive; now is the time for sustained support to help them reach even greater heights.
