By Jones Gadama
Malawian youths are set to hold a National Youth Summit on June 25 and 26, 2025, in a bid to position themselves ahead of the September elections.
The summit, themed “2025 National Youth Summit for Democracy and Human Rights,” aims to make the youth manifesto binding to political parties.
According to Mwandida Theu, Chairperson of the organizing committee, the conference will explore ways to hold governing parties accountable for unfulfilled youth manifestos.
In the past, parties have adopted youth manifestos solely for soliciting votes, but this summit seeks to change that narrative.
The Youths Decide Campaign, a coalition of various youth organizations including Youths And Society and National Youths Council, is behind the initiative. The campaign’s efforts are geared towards empowering youths to demand their rights and influence policy decisions that affect their lives.
The Importance of Youth Participation in Elections
Youth participation in elections is crucial for shaping the future of any nation. By engaging with political parties and policymakers, youths can ensure their concerns are addressed and their rights protected. The National Youth Summit provides a platform for youths to come together, discuss their concerns, and develop strategies for influencing policy decisions.
Expected Outcomes
The summit is expected to produce a binding youth manifesto that will guide political parties in their engagement with youths. It will also provide a platform for youths to engage with policymakers, political parties, and other stakeholders to ensure their concerns are heard and addressed.
In conclusion, the National Youth Summit is a significant step towards empowering Malawian youths to take an active role in shaping their country’s future. By making the youth manifesto binding and holding parties accountable, youths can ensure their voices are heard and their rights protected.
