Malawi’s President, Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, on Tuesday unveiled the “National Youth Policy (2023-2028)” at the Bingu International Convention Centre in Lilongwe. The revised policy was approved by the Malawi Government through the Cabinet on July 19, 2023, replacing the 2013 National Youth Policy.
During the launch, President Chakwera expressed his commitment to closely oversee the implementation of the National Youth Policy (2023-2028) to ensure that the youth’s voices are not only heard but also actively considered. He emphasized the importance of giving youth a platform to voice their opinions and involving them in programs that concern them.
“If I was to appeal to anybody, I would want them to remember that the first act of youth empowerment is to listen to them.
“I have no interest in any policy or program for young people that does not value their voices, ideas and work,” he said.
The President said government realises that the youth are critical actors of social transformation and sustainable development as such government is committed to put resources in programs that affect the youth to ensure that they are economically empowered so that they are protected from abuse, violence and exploitation.
Chairperson of National Youth Network, Yamikani Chiphazi commended government for tailor made programs that aim at improving the wellbeing of youth like the national youth service, jobs for youth project, youth friendly health service and the National Economic Empowerment Fund (NEEF).
Chiphazi challenged the youth to take leading role in implementing the policy and popularising it so that more youth take part in its implementation.
Prior to the launch, President Chakwera took time to tour various pavilions showcasing innovations, artistic works and youth tailored interventions.
The 2023-2028 National Youth Policy, among other things, enables the youth representation at Village Development Committee and Council level.
The official launch of the policy was organized with the primary objectives of raising awareness, facilitating dialogue, and mobilizing support and commitment for the successful implementation of the policy from all stakeholders.
The National Youth Policy lunch which coincided with celebration of UN Day was held under the theme: Harnessing the Youth potential towards the realization of Mw2063.”
