Government has challenged youths in the country to develop positive mindsets and contribute to the economic development of Zambia.
Minister of Justice, Mulambo Haimbe, said the future of Zambia lies in the hands of the youths hence the need for them to have positive mindsets.
Mr Haimbe stated that Zambian youths represent 36 percent of the country’s population, adding that there is enough evidence that the future of Zambia is on the shoulders of young people.
ZANIS reports that Mr Haimbe said this today during the Youth Day Celebrations held at Lusaka’s Show Grounds Main Arena.
He observed that empowered youths have the potential to bring about revolution for the betterment of their country.
He said it is from this premise that government is committed to implementing youth development through continued provision of youth empowerment funds.
Mr Haimbe added that empowerment programmes such as free education, increased bursary allocation, student loans and skills development among others, will continue to be executed.
The Minister of Justice further said government recognises the young people as key players in development and in providing the much-needed labour force for a productive nation.
“I am confident that a Zambian youth has the ability to provide physical and intellectual labour to hasten social economic development,” Mr Haimbe said.
Mr Haimbe has meanwhile urged youths to pursue agriculture, mining and transport business opportunities.
He said youths should endeavour to procure the best information and latest technologies in order to contribute to the country’s economic development.
And Lusaka District Commissioner, Rosa Zulu, implored the youths who are involved in illicit activities to desist from such acts.
Mrs Zulu said illicit activities such as drugs, alcohol abuse and violence are not good for the community.
And a youth representative, Koma Bubala, thanked government for the various empowerment programmes aimed at supporting the young people.
Ms Bubala said government has implemented various projects and programmes which are aimed at supporting the youths.
She said youths should apply creativity and skills so that they help develop the country.
This year’s youth day is being celebrated under the theme; ‘Transforming minds, for accelerated development,”