By Joseph Kamanga
In 2023, the Government of the Czech Republic launched the Cool Czechia Programme, an initiative aimed at elevating young African leaders’ positions in governance and decision making. Since then, this programme has become a dynamic platform for young African leaders under 30 to explore diplomacy, democracy, and development through Czechia’s unique history and culture.
From inception, Zambia has had participants on this initiative through the Zambia Free Press Initiative (FPI), Chapter One Foundation (COF), and the Alliance for Community Action (ACA), who have worked with the Czech Embassy in Lusaka in nominating exceptional young Zambians to participate in the programme.
So far, Zambia’s representation has included inspiring voices like Lucy Musonda (2023), Andrew Banda (2023), Muleta Kapatiso (2023), Hlezipi Mapalo Mulenga (2023), Chanda Chongo (2024) and Matthews Mayondi (2024). This year, two more young leaders – Shida Sande from the FPI and Henry Mulenga from COF – leave for Prague on October 7 to join the 2025 cohort.
For many, Cool Czechia has been more than a study tour as it provided them with an opportunity to learn how shared democratic values and cooperation can bridge continents.
Andrew, who was part of the inaugural Cool Czechia fellowship programme in 2023, says the initiative contributed to the trajectory he is currently heading. He participated under the ACA but now leads a youth organization he co-founded called Kamwisani Youth Hub.
“I was inspired by the systems of the Czech Republic and that has impacted how I want to show up for my country. I also ended up being selected for the Mandela Washington Fellowship partly because of my participation in the Cool Czechia fellowship and the work I did which also got recognized by the Cool Czechia,” Andrew says.
The programme is focused on cultural immersion, working with policymakers, and then simply spilling into Czech civil society. Lucy, who is a participant of the 2023 programme, thought the connection between Czech history and contemporary issues was quite enlightening. She explained that it was “both enlightening and transformative” to participate in Cool Czechia.
“It balanced cultural immersion with meaningful engagement on issues such as human rights, media freedom, and the Russia–Ukraine war. It showed how shared democratic values can strengthen advocacy and cooperation across borders,” says Lucy.
For Chanda, who participated in 2024, the opportunity to be nominated for the Cool Czechia Programme in Prague couldn’t have come at a better time.
“It was a great experience that opened my eyes and mind to Africa’s relative position with Czechia and the EU at large. Interacting with Czech parliamentarians, journalists, and scientists, and being part of the professional visit to institutions such as BIOCEV deepened my understanding of Czechia’s innovation and cultural heritage. The Forum 2000 sessions on democracy and the peak of the press were pretty inspiring,” shared Chanda.
The Forum 2000 conference held annually in October in Prague is another highlight for Cool Czechia participants as Matthews from the 2024 cohort recalls the thought-provoking conversations around democracy and international relations.
“Another memorable part to the programme was attending the Forum 2000 conference, an international meeting that is a platform for discussing issues of democracy and international affairs,” Matthews says. “I also had meaningful connections with different organizations such as Caritas Czech Republic and The People in Need, who are doing amazing development work in Zambia and other African countries. And as a media person, I especially had a wonderful time with a visit to Czech Television. It was fascinating to see how news production works behind-the-scenes. What I found most interesting to hear about the Czech Television model is that the television station is funded by citizens, which provides independence and non biased political reporting in public media, something my country can learn from.”
As the 2025 cohort commences its tour this week, Shida Sande reflects on her expectations of this initiative.
“I hope to gain insights into the challenges faced by Czechia and Central Europe due to Russian aggression against Ukraine, and to learn about the country’s thriving democracy,” said Sande.
“This initiative is not just a kind gesture, but a strategic partnership that will yield mutual benefits for both continents.”
Henry Mulenga from Chapter One Foundation, another 2025 participant, hopes to experience everything that will motivate him to bring positive change to himself, those around him, and Zambia at large.
“I expect a journey that’s both enriching and inspiring. I’m looking forward to exploring the Czech’s unique blend of history, culture, and modern creativity. I anticipate discovering not just iconic places, but also hidden local gems that offer a more authentic connection to the country. I hope to grow personally, engaging with new people and perspectives,” says Henry.
“I want to leave a lasting impression on others who will attend. Ultimately, I want Cool Czechia 2025 to be more than just an experience; I want it to be a milestone — a source of memorable stories, creative energy, and a deeper understanding of myself, and the Czech.”
Through this Cool Czechia initiative, a network of young African changemakers is growing, as they take away new ideas, relationships, and perspectives on how cross-continental partnerships can drive positive change.
As the Czech government sustains its ties with Africa, initiatives such as the Cool Czechia are a reminder that diplomacy isn’t just about boardrooms, but the hearts and minds of many fearless young leaders who have dedicated themselves towards shaping the future of Zambia.