Youths in Mzimba District have lamented lack of jobs and economic opportunities, saying it is pushing them into poverty.
They made the remarks on Saturday during an economic dialogue session organised by the Manson Institute for Leadership Education. The session was meant to give youths a platform to discuss issues hindering their economic growth.
Speaking during the session, Chrispin Kaperemela of Mbenecho Youth Club at Mzimba Boma said most youths fail to access loans to venture into entrepreneurship.
| Elton Mhango
He said: “For many youths, access to finance is the biggest challenge. Despite having viable business ideas that could create jobs and grow the local economy, most of us cannot access funding.
“Many financial lending institutions such as banks require collateral to obtain loans to finance businesses. This becomes a challenge for many youths.”
On his part, Mzimba South Youth Network chairperson Anthony Botha said young people face hardships securing jobs as employers often demand years of experience.
Mzimba district labour officer Edward Shafi acknowledged the challenges.
“The issues are genuine. However, some challenges arise because young people are not fully aware of available opportunities and services that could support them,” he said.
The initiative’s executive director John Nyangulu said the concerns reflect a broader national problem affecting young people across Malawi.
He said they will continue to engage duty-bearers through such platforms to address economic challenges facing the youth.
National Statistical Office records show that youth unemployment in the age brackets of 15-35 years in Malawi stands at 21.5 percent.
