NPC, NYCOM emphasize youth involvement in Vision 2063

Young people in Malawi have been encouraged to take the lead in advocating for, fostering, and implementing Malawi Vision 2063.

Thomas Munthali, Director General of the National Planning Commission (NPC), made this statement on Tuesday during the farewell ceremony for the pioneers of the Malawi 2063 Youth Advisory Panel, which was established in 2020, as well as the training session for the new panel in Dowa.

“Vision 2063 is youth-centric; therefore, young people must play a significant role not only in providing oversight but also in implementing the vision,” said Munthali.

He explained that the NPC and the National Youth Council of Malawi (NYCOM) are collaborating to orient young people, helping them better understand Vision 2063 and its first ten-year implementation plan, as well as the key roles they are expected to play.

Williot Lumbe, Director of Programs at NYCOM, stated that the advisory panel represents over ten million Malawian youths, ensuring that their aspirations and experiences are reflected in Vision 2063 and integrated into its implementation.

Lumbe highlighted that the selected youth members come from key sectors such as Agriculture, Tourism, Mining, and Manufacturing (ATMM strategy), leveraging their expertise to drive the vision’s progress.

“We commend the first advisory panel for its efforts, despite facing challenges such as poor coordination due to COVID-19. Together with the NPC, we aim to address these shortcomings to ensure continuous progress,” added Lumbe.

Additionally, Patience Khembo, an outgoing member of the Malawi Vision 2063 Youth Advisory Panel, emphasized that increasing financial allocations for agriculture, education, and youth enterprise were among the key priorities they advocated for in Vision 2063.

Khembo also stressed the importance of youth involvement in decision-making processes, given that they make up a significant portion of the country’s population.