Today, we have proudly launched SNV Zambia’s Youth Employment and Entrepreneurship (YEE) Project, an initiative that reaffirms our commitment to equipping young people with the skills, resources, and opportunities needed to secure meaningful employment and start their own businesses.

The launch event, graced by our Permanent Secretary, Mr. Kangwa Chileshe, highlighted the Government’s strong resolve to tackle youth unemployment through practical solutions. The YEE Project, implemented by SNV Zambia and supported by SIDA, SDC, and Irish Aid, will impact over 20,100 youth across five provinces, with a total budget of €7.4 million.

This initiative builds on the success of the Opportunities for Youth Employment (OYE) Project, proving that collaboration and innovation can create real change for our young people.

Key Government Commitments Shared at the Event:

Revised National Youth Policy & Implementation Plan (2024-2028): A roadmap for sustainable youth empowerment and employment.

Skills Training: Over 12,425 youth graduated from the 23 Youth Resource Centres in 2023/2024, with plans to increase this number to 5,000 per year through revenue-generating sustainability measures.

Job-Ready Training in Various Sectors: Including agriculture, ICT, entrepreneurship, auto mechanics, hospitality, and more—ensuring young people are equipped with relevant and in-demand skills.

Bridging the Gap Between Education & Employment: By fostering innovation, mentorship, and business creation to transform challenges into opportunities.

At the panel discussion, Ms. Mable Beene NEDZIWE, Acting Director Youth, emphasized the importance of youth taking the lead in creating jobs, utilizing government support, and leveraging available opportunities in industries like transport, technology, and manufacturing.

The Government, through the Ministry, is committed to ensuring that no young person is left behind. We encourage all youth to actively participate in these programmes, embrace entrepreneurship, and use their skills to shape a brighter future for Zambia.

Together, we are investing in the future of our nation!

#YEEProject #YouthEmpowerment