As Malawi joins the global community in commemorating International Youth Day, several youth organisations have raised concerns about the limited role young people play in national decision-making processes.
The Concerned Youth Organization (CYO) has highlighted the continued marginalisation of youths in key governance and policy implementation roles.
CYO Executive Director, Happy Chimaliro, expressed disappointment that, while young people are often invited to participate in discussions, they are rarely entrusted with actual decision-making powers.
“It is sad to note that young people are allowed to participate in conversations at various levels, but when it comes to policy implementation and actual decision-making, they are left out,” said Chimaliro. “We rarely see young people appointed to serve in parastatals and other public institutions. This must change if we are to promote inclusive governance.”
On climate action, Julius Ng’oma, National Coordinator for the Civil Society Network on Climate Change (CISONECC), echoed similar sentiments, pointing out the disparity between the impact of climate change on youth and their involvement in mitigation efforts.
“Young people are among the most affected by climate change, yet there remains a significant gap in empowering them to take part in environmental conservation and climate resilience planning,” Ng’oma said.
From the rural context, the Phalombe Youth Arms Organization (PYAO) noted that lack of resources and limited capacity hinder youth participation in development efforts.
PYAO Executive Director, Vincent Makuluni, called for greater investment in youth-led initiatives, particularly in underserved areas.
“There is a need to embrace youth innovations and ensure they are sustainable and consistent. Rural youth often lack the necessary tools and funding to effectively contribute to national development,” Makuluni said.
Makuluni, who also serves on the board of the National Youth Council of Malawi, urged young people to take a proactive approach by familiarising themselves with national policies and development strategies.
“Only when young people understand the frameworks guiding national development can they meaningfully engage in local and national initiatives,” he added.
International Youth Day is observed annually on August 12 to recognise the contributions of young people to society and advocate for their rights and inclusion in global development efforts. This year’s theme focuses on youth participation in decision-making and sustainable development.
(Additional reporting by Jonas Kachikho)
