The youth of Malawi represent a significant and growing human resource, with the potential to contribute to sustainable economic development. Historically marginalised from active participation, their force for change has now been recognised. Forty percent of Malawi’s population is aged 10 to 35 years but lacks basic opportunities to develop their potential.
Recognising the importance of youth to the country’s development, Malawi has created a National Youth Policy, designed to empower and develop the youth of Malawi to reach their potential. Grounded in valuing the rights and responsibilities of their younger citizens, the policy defines youth as aged between 10 to 35 years old.
Implementation mechanisms have been developed accordingly, and the work has fostered the political will and enabling environment necessary to create sustainable change in the country.