LUSAKA – Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts, Hon. Elvis C. Nkandu, MP, has officially opened the 12th Annual Safeguard Young People (SYP) Regional Steering Committee Meeting, calling for stronger regional collaboration to secure a better future for young people.

Speaking at the opening ceremony in Lusaka, hon. Nkandu described the meeting as a vital platform for shaping policies that directly impact young people across East and Southern Africa.

Being held under the theme “From Footsteps to Footprints,” the meeting has drawn senior government officials, regional partners and development agencies, including the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

Hon. Nkandu has noted that the SYP programme has, for over a decade, played a critical role in advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights, protection and empowerment for young people aged between 10 and 24.

He said the programme’s progress reflects strong government ownership and collaboration among ministries and partners adding that his Ministry remained committed to providing leadership and ensuring accountability in youth development efforts.

The hon. Minister further urged delegates to use the three-day meeting to share experiences, strengthen partnerships and develop practical solutions that will leave a lasting impact on young people.

He emphasized that collective leadership, innovation and collaboration are key to transforming commitments into measurable results.