12/03/2026
"Empowered to Rise, Inspired to Soar"
Statement by Chembo Mafuka on International Youth Day- 12.03.2026
Today, we celebrate the potential and power of young people to shape the Tommorow of our increasingly interconnected world. With over half of the global population under the age of 30, young generations will find the solutions to some of our toughest global challenges.
This year's Youth Day theme in Zambia is "Arise and Soar," a theme emphasizing the importance of rising above challenges and soaring to new heights. As we commemorate this day, we must recognize the critical role we play in Zambia's development, especially in this election year, 2026. We are not just leaders of tomorrow but change agents today, driving progress for the growth of our country.
Dear fellow Youth, we must have a Mindset Transformation, must keep working together to learn from one another and effect change in our communities. We are at the forefront of advocating for societies to advance and improve, whether on issues of human rights, governance etc.
As Zambia prepares for elections, it is cardinal that we the youth exercise our right to vote and shape the the tomorrow of our country.
As I reflect on this day, I recall that on International Youth Day in 2023, I was arrested and detained on politically trumped up charges, a reminder of the challenges young people face when speaking truth to power. This experience has only strengthened my resolve to advocate for justice and human rights. I urge young people to remain resilient, courageous, and committed to transformative work, even in the face of adversity. We must continue to speak truth to authority, demand accountability, and push for a more just and equitable society.
We are the heartbeat of our nation, and our voices must roar like a lion in the wildness. We must invest in our potential and support our endeavors to build a prosperous Zambia. Happy Youth Day.
May our actions today shape the Zambia of tomorrow.
