By Suleman Chitera
Young people in Malawi have been challenged to take a more active and influential role in shaping the country’s future by driving social transformation and contributing to policy development.
The call was made by Linda Harawa, Country Director for Emerging Public Leaders (EPL) Malawi, during the annual Emerging Public Leaders Alumni Network Gathering currently taking place in Liberia.Malawi’s Gold Mystery: Who Is Benefiting While the Nation Remains Poor?
Speaking at the high-level event, Harawa highlighted the growing impact that young people are making in national development across Africa, stressing that Malawi’s youth possess the potential, innovation, and leadership capacity needed to help address some of the country’s most pressing challenges.
She noted that while youths continue to demonstrate commitment and talent in various sectors, there remains a need for greater support systems and meaningful opportunities for engagement within public institutions.
“Young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are leaders today. Their voices, ideas, and participation are critical in shaping policies and driving sustainable development,” Harawa emphasized.Kameza Interchange Project Signals New Era for Malawi’s Transport Infrastructure and Economic Growth
The two-day gathering has brought together emerging leaders from Ghana, Liberia, Malawi, Kenya, and Sierra Leone, all of whom are alumni of the Public Service Fellowship Programme. The event serves as a platform for networking, sharing experiences, strengthening leadership skills, and discussing solutions to governance and development challenges facing African nations.
Participants are exchanging ideas on how young professionals can contribute more effectively to public service, improve accountability in government institutions, and influence policies that promote inclusive growth and social progress.
Harawa said empowering young people to participate in decision-making processes is essential for building stronger and more responsive public institutions.Malawi Government Unveils Plans for Modern Kameza Interchange as M1 Highway Expansion Gains Momentum
She further observed that youth involvement in governance can help bridge the gap between citizens and policymakers, ensuring that development initiatives better reflect the needs and aspirations of communities.
The Emerging Public Leaders programme has become an important platform for nurturing the next generation of public sector leaders across Africa. Through fellowships, mentorship, and leadership development initiatives, the programme equips young professionals with the skills and knowledge required to drive positive change within government and public institutions.
As Malawi continues to pursue its development agenda, experts believe that investing in youth leadership and creating pathways for meaningful participation in governance will be key to accelerating economic growth, strengthening democracy, and improving public service delivery.Investigative Report: How Nir Ges Obtained a Diplomatic Passport in Malawi
The Liberia gathering comes at a time when many African countries are increasingly recognizing the importance of youth leadership in addressing complex social, economic, and governance challenges. For Malawi, the message is clear: empowering young people today is essential for building a more prosperous and inclusive future.President Mutharika Urged to Revoke Nir Ges’ Diplomatic Passport Amid Outgoing MCP Scandal