Introduction

The youth in Zambia represent both the present and the future of the nation. With over 75% of Zambia’s population under the age of 35, the country's progress heavily depends on how well we support, empower, and engage young people. In this article, we’ll explore the current state of youth in Zambia, the challenges they face, the opportunities available, and how various stakeholders  including government, NGOs, tech hubs, and youth-led initiatives are driving change across the country.

The Role of Youth in Zambia’s Development

Young people in Zambia are energetic, innovative, and increasingly aware of their potential to shape the nation. From entrepreneurship and digital innovation to arts, advocacy, and agriculture, youth are making a meaningful impact. Zambia’s Vision 2030 and the 8th National Development Plan highlight youth empowerment as a priority, recognizing that young people are key to achieving sustainable economic growth and social transformation.

Challenges Faced by Zambian Youth

Despite their potential, youth in Zambia face several pressing challenges:

• High unemployment and underemployment
  Many young people struggle to find meaningful jobs after completing school or university. The formal job market cannot absorb the growing number of graduates each year.

• Limited access to quality education and skills training
  While Zambia has made strides in improving education, many youths lack access to relevant vocational training or digital skills that match today’s job market.

• Mental health and social pressure
  Youth often navigate high expectations from society while dealing with poverty, peer pressure, and identity struggles — all of which impact mental well-being.

• Lack of funding for startups and creative projects
  Aspiring entrepreneurs and innovators frequently face hurdles in accessing funding or mentorship, making it harder to turn their ideas into real businesses or movements.

Opportunities and Programs Supporting Youth in Zambia

There is hope. Across Zambia, a growing ecosystem of support is emerging for youth-led development. Here are some key players and initiatives:

1. Youth Information Hub

Youth Information Hub is an innovative online platform that provides access to scholarships, digital skills training, free courses, and career opportunities tailored for Zambian youth. It bridges the gap between information and opportunity.

2. National Youth Development Council (NYDC)

The NYDC works with the government to coordinate youth programs, support youth organizations, and promote civic engagement.

3. Empowerment Funds and Grants

Government and NGOs like UNDP, FSD Zambia, and private institutions offer business grants, loan schemes, and youth empowerment funds targeting startups, agriculture, and digital entrepreneurship.

4. Tech Hubs and Innovation Spaces

Places like BongoHive (Lusaka) and Copperbelt Innovation Hub offer mentorship, coworking space, and business incubation for young tech innovators and creatives.

Key Sectors Where Zambian Youth Can Thrive

✅ Digital Skills and Online Jobs

As internet access expands, Zambian youth can tap into global freelancing, e-commerce, and tech jobs with proper training.

✅ Agriculture and Agribusiness

With over 70% of Zambia’s land being arable, agribusiness presents a powerful opportunity for youth to lead food production and export innovation.

✅ Tourism and Creative Industries

Zambia’s rich culture and landscapes create room for youth to build businesses in fashion, music, film, and eco-tourism — especially in places like Livingstone.

✅ Civic Leadership and Advocacy

Young people are becoming powerful voices for change. From climate action to gender equality, youth-led movements are reshaping Zambia’s political and social landscape.

How You Can Support the Youth in Zambia

• Mentor or invest in a young person
  Share your time, knowledge, or capital with a youth entrepreneur or leader.

• Partner with youth-led initiatives
  Organizations can amplify their impact by partnering with young people already making a difference.

• Promote platforms like the Youth Information Hub
  Whether you’re an educator, donor, or influencer  help spread awareness about resources that connect youth with opportunities.

Final Thoughts: The Future is Youth

The future of Zambia depends on what we do today to invest in our young people. As we unlock opportunities, remove barriers, and nurture talents, the youth in Zambia will not only transform their own lives  they will drive the transformation of our nation.

Let’s empower the next generation to rise.