— Youths critical players for national development – Nyirenda

–Government  says  youths are a critical resource in national development and economic growth.

Chirundu District Commissioner Peggy Nyirenda  says the country needs to tap in the potential of young people to take the country forward.

She stressed that human capital is one of the most important resources Zambia has at the moment.

She was speaking the Chirundu District Golden Jubilee Independence Day Youth Talent Identification Programme dubbed “ Imiti Ikula Empanga” as part of various activities linedup ahead of the Country’s Golden Jubilee Celebrations in Chirundu yesterday.

The Chirundu District Commissioner stated that all efforts must be made to harness the youthful enthusiasm to the nation’s advantage in developing the country.

And speaking on behalf of  his fellow youths, Gera Salin, says President Michael Sata needed to be supported for extending  various economic growth activities to all parts of the country .

Mr. Salin further said President Sata’s declaration of Chirundu  as a district in particular had  fostered various development activities in the area.

He pointed out that among these included the commissioned Michael Chilufya Sata Bridge, the tarring of the Bottom Road and other feeder roads.

And in vote of thanks, Mirriam Mwewa asked government to consider constructing a youth skills training centre and other tertiary institutions to enable young people gain skills.

Ms. Mwewa noted that that Chirundu District being a border town, most young people end up indulging in prostitution and other anti- social activities due to limited formal employment.

She said although government is currently providing access to education, mentorship and entrepreneurial programmes such as the Youth Fund, most rural youths fail to benefit due to lack of information of such programmes.