MINISTER of Fisheries and Livestock Makozo Chikota has urged Zambian youths to avoid engaging in petty issues and instead focus on creating environmental solutions amid the current climate challenges facing the country.
Speaking during World Environment Day commemorations on Wednesday, Chikota emphasised the critical role youths play in addressing environmental degradation and combating climate change.
“Youths, you have a bigger role to play. You don’t have to waste time on things that do not add any value to our nation. Stop wasting time on things that divide us because this is the only Zambia we have,” Chikota stated.
“We must prioritize issues that concern our environment and planet. You have what it takes to create the best environment for our nation and formulate solutions that can end the 12-hour load shedding.”
Chikota called on the youth to take the lead in finding innovative solutions to environmental problems rather than waiting for the government to act.
He stressed that the youth’s involvement is essential for creating sustainable and impactful change.
Meanwhile, public health students from the University of Zambia echoed Chikota’s call for youth engagement in environmental and climate change matters.
Conillus Banda, a third-year public health student, highlighted the importance of youth participation in implementing government policies.
“In most cases, lawmakers make these laws, but there is almost no one to implement them, and that is where us youths should come in,” Banda said.
“We should be involved in plant and environment preservation because we are the powerhouse of the country.”
Japharin Nachimata, another student, emphasised the need for close collaboration between the government and the youth.
“There is need for more engagement with the students because we are always in close contact with the largely affected areas, meaning our contributions of ideas during policy-making will be meaningful,” Nachimata said.
By Elesani Phiri
