Acquire technical skills, Karonga youths told

Community leaders around Mwanjabala in Senior Chief Kalonga in Karonga have asked youths in the district to acquire technical skills to be economically independent.

The call follows reports that some youths are engaged in risky behaviour such as drug abuse due to lack of employment opportunities.

Speaking on Wednesday during a meeting with the Catholic Commission for Peace and Justice (CCJP) of Karonga Diocese, acting group village head Mwahimba Mwakifwamba said they were concerned with the youth who were idle.

Senior Chief Kalonga said he sanctioned the meeting for the traditional leaders to rekindle the working relationship with CCJP in the area.

He said: “Some time back, CCJP had a programme for girls and boys which kept them busy and away from drug and alcohol abuse and other immoral behaviour.

“So, it is our hope that while parents play their role in sending children to school, CCJP will give us another opportunity for technical and vocational skills trainings for our youths.”

On his part, CCJP project officer Vincent Bwinga said the meeting provided an opportunity to find solutions for parents on how to prevent youths from abusing drugs and engaging in other risky behaviour.

“There is need for the youth to acquire technical and vocational skills to be economically independent.”