Govt distributes grants, motorbikes to youths in Western Province

Over 3,200 youths across Western Province have reportedly received grants, while 192 others have been empowered with motorbikes under the National Youth Scheme.

The initiative is aimed at fostering self-reliance and creating employment opportunities among young people.

This is according to a statement issued in Lusaka on Tuesday by Ministry of Youth, Sport and Art Principal Public Relations Officer Nchimunya Ngandu.

Speaking during the handover ceremony in Mongu on Tuesday, Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts, Elvis Nkandu, emphasized that the initiative was part of the government’s broader strategy to combat youth unemployment and poverty, particularly in rural areas.

“For a long time, Zambian youths, especially those in rural areas, have been neglected and left behind, making most of them vulnerable and trapped in the poverty cycle. The National Youth Scheme is here to change that reality,” Nkandu said.

He stated tgst under the programme, beneficiaries received grants ranging from K500 to K5,000 to start small businesses such as barbershops, salons, mobile money booths, and gardening projects.

Nkandu said unlike loans, these grants do not require repayment, but recipients were expected to demonstrate how they have used the funds to improve their livelihoods.

Additionally, 192 motorbikes have been distributed on a loan basis, with recipients required to repay the full amount plus a fixed 10% interest.

“The motorcycles are expected to enhance local transport services and improve the distribution of goods in both urban and remote areas,” he said.

The Ministry also empowered some youths with peanut butter making machines and some beneficiaries expressed gratitude, stating that the grants and motorbikes would significantly improve their livelihoods.

Meanwhile, Western Province Minister Kapelwa Bangweta called on the Ministry to consider providing additional equipment such as motorboats, which are essential for businesses that rely on water transport in the province.

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