30.11.2024
Katete Town Council, in partnership with UNICEF, held a highly impactful Collaborative Brunch Meeting yesterday under the theme “Local Government, Youth, and Corporate Synergy for Sustainable Growth. The event, which brought together local government officials, corporate leaders, and youth advocates, underscored the importance of collaboration in driving youth empowerment and economic development.
Dr. Lewis Mwape, Deputy Permanent Secretary representing the Provincial Minister, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the significance of youth entrepreneurship in Zambia’s economic recovery. He highlighted the Youth Entrepreneur Mentorship Program, which is designed to harness the potential of young individuals aged 16 to 30 by providing them with hands-on entrepreneurial experience. Dr. Mwape noted that the program would leverage Constituency Development Funds (CDF) to support youth-led enterprises, fostering sustainable economic development. He stressed that this initiative was in alignment with the vision of His Excellency, President Hakainde Hichilema, who has consistently championed youth entrepreneurship as a key driver of the nation’s progress.
Ms. Kate Leo Mukonde, the Council Secretary, also spoke on the strategic framework of the program, outlining how CDF will be utilized to empower youth. She explained that the local authority would allocate lots in tender bids for community projects to companies or contractors partnering with youth. These partnerships will form Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs), with 50% ownership vested in the mentoring company. Following the mentorship period, the mentoring company will sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to transfer full ownership to the youth, ensuring a smooth transition to youth-led enterprises.
This mentorship program aims to create a nurturing environment for young people to develop their entrepreneurial skills, while simultaneously contributing to Zambia’s economic growth. By integrating CDF into this model, the initiative offers the youth unique opportunities not typically found in the private sector, providing them with mentorship and practical experience to lead successful businesses and inspire future generations.
The event was attended by distinguished guests including Dr. Lewis Mwape, Deputy Permanent Secretary; Mr. George Machayi, representing Permanent Secretary Mr. Paul Thole; His Worship Mr. George Mwanza, Chipata City Mayor; District Commissioner Mr. Raphael M. Phiri; His Royal Highness Chiefness Mban’gombe; Deputy Council Chairperson Mr. Lumankio Zulu; Council Secretary Ms. Kate Leo Mukonde,Representative from Ministry of small medium enterprise councillors, heads of government departments; and various stakeholders.
This collaborative initiative marks a significant step towards empowering Zambia’s youth and ensuring sustainable economic growth for the future.
Issued by Elizabeth Mwansa
Public Relations Officer
Katete Town Council.