Minister of Youth and Sports Ulemu Msungama says he is committed to empowering the youth and promoting their representation at various levels in a quest to enhance the country’s development.

He made the commitment during his familiarization tour at Youth Net and Counselling (YONECO) Head Office in Zomba.

Msungama said that he is aware of the needs of young people as such he will make sure that they are considered and given space to take part in various issues of public interest.

“I am a young person myself and I know exactly what youth in the country are going through, in my capacity I will ensure that these young are empowered, well represented and are the front-liners of the country’s development,” he said.

“Let me also highlight that for as a starting point, I have ordered that the national youth policy review which is currently underway is open to the youth. This time around we will have the views of the young people themselves and they will be considered.”

In his remarks, YONECO’s Executive Director, MacBain Mkandawire, said their doors are open to work collaboratively with government in uplifting the lives of young people in the country.

However Mkandawire urged young people in the country to be responsible and earn people’s confidence, trust and support for effective participation and the country’s development.

“One thing that we should seriously look into is developing the skills of young people and building their capacity so that they can effectively perform the duties entrusted to them,” said Mkandawire.

“Again, the youth themselves should be responsible enough whenever they have been given particular tasks, this will help them earn people’s trust, confidence and support.”