United Party for National Development (UPND) president Hakainde Hichilema says Zambia is a nation of young people adding that “half of Zambians are under 15 years and 74% of the population are under the age of 30.”
Mr Hichilema says UPND recognise that the weight of the future rests on the shoulders of the youth, and his party has worked tirelessly to create a plan of action that empowers youths.
In a statement made available to WM Media, Mr Hichilema stated that today Zambia is facing a crisis with 30% of all children under the age of 15 orphaned mainly due to HIV.
“It is in situations like this that young people need a government that cares about them and their voice, not one that has seen child labour rates remain at 40.6% or child
marriage rates at 60% in some provinces,” he explained.
He stated that UPND is taking a stand and re-affirming their commitment to Zambia’s youth.
“We will support you to succeed. We will make your lives happier, healthier and
more prosperous through our threefold plan. Firstly, we will invest in education so that it works for you; improve access rates, raise standards of education and help university graduates find work. Secondly we will boost job creation, every young Zambian has something valuable to contribute so the UPND will work so that their voices are heard and their work is recognised. Finally, we will invest in skills
training and mentorship in emerging and priority growth sectors, such as technology and tourism so as to create the business leaders of tomorrow,” Mr Hichilema assured youths.
The UPND president further stated that too long has the voice of youths gone unnoticed and undervalued.
“Let us remember that the young people of Zambia are a blessing and it is our responsibility to create a country in which they can flourish and we can grow together,” Mr Hichilema stated.
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