By Raphael Obonyo
As the political temperature rises in the country because of the 2026 presidential and parliamentary election, it is proper that every opportunity is seized to remind the youth of Zambia of the crucial role they play in politics.
In Zambia the youth constitute more than 50 percent of the population and since democratic processes is about numbers, the youth should have a role to play in decision-making processes.
They therefore need to be involved in the political process, and they must be adequately prepared for the roles they are expected to play. Young people must be given opportunities to develop and contribute meaningfully.
Noteworthy, the youth bring fresh thinking, energy and creativity to the political process and these are factors beneficial to the society. Marginalization and exclusion of youth in decision-making process is detrimental to the society.
Government must take measures to boost youth participation in public life especially politics. In particular, there is need to keep young people engaged and motivated to run for office and vote.
Youth are not deemed not to be interested in politics. This could not be further from the truth. Young people care about politics, and only reject the divisive nature.
In the 2021 Zambia’s general election, young people turned out in large numbers, proving they are interested in reclaiming politics and shaping their future. At least 54 percent of registered voters were 34 or younger, according to statistics from Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ).
Zambia’s 2021 election went down in history as a key lesson on what happens when young people vote. The youth of Zambia earned notable mentions and praise for harnessing the power of the vote to chart a new path for their country.
On the election day, young people woke up early, stood in long queues for long to vote and make their vote count and voice heard.
Youth understand that politics shapes daily life through resource allocation and public services. Each decision within politics acts as the first part of a chain reaction as it trickles down into daily life.
That is why, youth must ensure that they are not mere observers in decision-making. By participating in politics youth have the opportunity to make a change. Young people should know that their voices matter.
It is encouraging that a majority of young people see politics as important to their identity and believe they can get involved and improve things. But too many young people are still marginalized, and not well-informed and enabled to participate in political life.
There is need for robust measures to ensure equitable civic preparation and participation of young people – support young people participate fully in politics and governance.
Government, civil society, political parties and other actors should encourage more young people to get interested in politics – share information and knowledge that enable young people to get involved. At the same time, listening to young people, empowering young leaders, proactively engage young voters and follow through with efforts to increase youth participation in politics.
Mr Obonyo is a Public Policy Analyst. Email: raphojuma@hotmail.com