GAYO Applauds the Launch of a Bold Roadmap That Places Young People at the Heart of Malawi’s Development
In a historic move to shape a youth-driven future, the 2025–2030 Malawi Youth Manifesto has officially been launched under the banner “Youth Decide Campaign – Democracy in Young Hands.” Girls Activist Youth Organisation (GAYO) joins over 40 youth-focused civil society organisations in celebrating this transformative milestone that puts young people in the driver’s seat of Malawi’s development agenda.
The Manifesto, birthed from nationwide consultations involving thousands of young voices from the North, Centre, and South of Malawi, is more than a document it is a social contract between the youth and the government. It boldly outlines the aspirations, demands, and vision of young Malawians across 12 key themes including education, employment, governance, climate change, disability inclusion, and digital transformation.
“This is our moment. This is our future. Let’s take charge,” declared Charles Kajoloweka, YDC Secretariat Lead, capturing the spirit of a generation ready to lead.
What’s Inside the Manifesto?
Each thematic area is backed by real data, clear analysis, and realistic policy demands. Here are just a few highlights:
- Education: A call to recruit more teachers, provide bursaries, expand ICT in schools, and ensure inclusive education for girls and learners with disabilities.
- Employment: Recommendations include abolishing barriers to vocational training, building technical colleges in every district, and simplifying business registration for youth entrepreneurs.
- Governance & Leadership: A push for a 30% youth quota in governance, transformation of NYCOM into an autonomous National Youth Commission, and leadership mentorship within political parties.
- Climate & Environment: Youth-led solutions on reforestation, green innovations, and catchment restoration were prioritized as urgent action points.
- Health & SRHR: Strong advocacy for expanded youth-friendly health services, mental health inclusion, and combating substance abuse.
Why This Matters for GAYO
As a youth-led organisation rooted in girl empowerment, rights, and leadership, GAYO stands proudly behind this Manifesto. The issues highlighted from inclusive education and SRHR to gender-based violence and leadership space for girls align deeply with GAYO’s mission.
We especially applaud the Manifesto’s emphasis on:
- Eliminating child marriage and school-related sexual violence
- Ensuring education equity through bursaries and infrastructure
- Promoting girl-led participation in climate and political action
What Comes Next?
The success of the Youth Manifesto depends on collective action. Political parties, government officials, development partners, and youth themselves must now move from commitment to action.
At GAYO, we pledge to:
✅ Champion the Manifesto across our programmes
✅ Engage girls and young women in awareness-raising and civic literacy
✅ Hold duty bearers accountable through youth-led monitoring
✅ Amplify youth voices on national platforms and in digital spaces
This is not just a document; it’s a declaration of purpose. A blueprint of hope. An audacious reminder that Malawi belongs to its young people too.
Let’s rise. Let’s act. Let’s decide.
Download the full Malawi Youth Manifesto here
