The Editor Zambia
As Zambia moves closer to the August 13, 2026 general election, the importance of the youth vote cannot be overstated.
With young people constituting the largest demographic group in the country, any political party hoping to secure victory must earn their trust, confidence, and support. 
It is against this backdrop that United Party for National Development (UPND) National Youth chairperson Gilbert Liswaniso’s confidence in securing another youth mandate deserves serious consideration.
Liswaniso is correct in pointing out that young people played a decisive role in ushering President Hakainde Hichilema into office in 2021.
Frustrated by economic hardships, unemployment, and limited opportunities in the Patriotic Front (PF) regime that was characterised by poor policies for youths, millions of youths rallied behind a message of change and hope.
Five years later, the question before voters is whether the UPND government has made meaningful progress toward fulfilling those aspirations.
While challenges remain, there is little doubt that several initiatives introduced under the UPND administration have directly benefited young people.
The introduction of free education stands out as one of the most transformative policies implemented in recent years.
Thousands of learners who would otherwise have dropped out due to financial constraints have remained in school, giving them a better chance of securing brighter futures.
Equally significant has been the expansion of skills development and vocational training programmes.
Across the country, young people have gained access to training in practical trades such as carpentry, welding, plumbing, electrical installation, and other technical disciplines.
In an economy where formal employment opportunities are limited, such skills provide pathways to self-employment and entrepreneurship.
The Constituency Development Fund (CDF) has also emerged as a powerful tool for youth empowerment. Although concerns regarding access and implementation have been raised in some constituencies, the expanded CDF has enabled communities to undertake projects that were previously impossible due to inadequate resources.
Through grants, loans, bursaries, and infrastructure projects, many young people have benefited either directly or indirectly from the increased allocations.
Liswaniso’s argument that young voters should evaluate the government’s overall record rather than isolated shortcomings is a reasonable one.
Every administration faces obstacles, and the UPND government inherited a difficult economic environment marked by high debt levels, sluggish growth, and external shocks, including severe droughts that affected economic activity.
Despite these challenges, the government has continued investing in programmes aimed at improving opportunities for young citizens.
President Hakainde Hichilema’s connection with young people has also remained a significant political asset. Long before becoming Head of State, he cultivated strong relationships with students, entrepreneurs, and first-time voters.
His engagement on social media, youth forums, and educational institutions helped establish a rapport that many politicians struggle to build.
The nickname “Bally,” affectionately given to him by young supporters, was not the result of a marketing campaign but emerged organically from those who felt a sense of connection with his leadership style.
Even today, large numbers of young people continue to attend events where he appears, reflecting a level of enthusiasm that can not simply be manufactured.
Critics may argue that unemployment remains high and that the cost of living continues to affect many households. These concerns are legitimate and deserve attention.
However, it is equally important to acknowledge the progress that has been made and the foundation that has been laid for future growth. Development is a process rather than an overnight event.
As election campaigns intensify, the youth vote is likely to remain the decisive factor. Young people will ultimately determine whether the UPND deserves another term in office.
If the government succeeds in effectively communicating its achievements, acknowledging remaining challenges, and presenting a credible vision for the future, Liswaniso’s confidence may well prove justified.
The 2026 election will not simply be a contest between political parties. It will also be a referendum on which leadership young Zambians believe is best positioned to deliver opportunities, prosperity, and hope for the next generation.
Based on the administration’s youth-focused policies and President Hichilema’s enduring appeal among young voters, the UPND has every reason to believe that the youth mandate remains within reach.
