Arise and Soar’ for Youth

NFF challenges Zambian Youth to move beyond symbolic participation

By Francis Maingaila ♥️

Lusaka, 12 March 2026 –The National Freedom Front (NFF) today marked Youth Day by urging young Zambians to take an active role in shaping the country’s political, economic, and social future.

NFF Secretary General Harry Simuntala told Zambia24 that the day commemorates the historic courage of youths in Chimwemwe, Kitwe, who in 1962 confronted colonial authorities with nothing but stones.

“Their sacrifice and defiance helped sustain the momentum that eventually led to Zambia’s independence in 1964,” he noted.

Simuntala explained that Youth Day was first dedicated in 1966 by then-President Kenneth Kaunda to honor the contribution of young people to the liberation struggle.

“Youth Day is not merely a celebration; it is a political reminder that the freedom and dignity of our country were advanced by organized, conscious, and courageous young people,” he added.

On the role of today’s youth, Simuntala said, “The National Freedom Front stands as a political movement largely driven by the energy, intellect, and aspirations of young Zambians.

Our party believes that the youth must not only be praised as ‘leaders of tomorrow’ but must exercise leadership today in shaping Zambia’s political, economic, and social future.”

Regarding this year’s theme, Simuntala emphasized, “Our theme this year, ‘Arise and Soar,’ is a clarion call to the youth in Zambia to move beyond symbolic participation and take an active role in nation-building.”

He noted that Zambia faces challenges such as youth unemployment, inequality, limited economic opportunity, lack of quality education, and limited democratic participation.

“These issues require a generation that is organized, innovative, and fearless in advancing people-centered solutions,” he said.

On youth empowerment, Simuntala stated, “Zambia’s prosperity depends on empowering young people with a political voice, economic opportunity, and civic responsibility.

This means strengthening democratic participation, expanding youth access to economic resources, and building institutions that allow young citizens to lead with integrity and competence.”

He further urged young people to draw inspiration from the youth of 1962.

“Just as they confronted colonial injustice with determination, today’s generation must confront poverty, exclusion, and inequality with organization, discipline, collective action, and decisive political direction,” he said.

Simuntala reaffirmed the NFF’s commitment to youth leadership.

“The National Freedom Front remains committed to building a Zambia where young people are not spectators in national development, but architects of the nation’s future,” he said.

“On this Youth Day, let the spirit of Arise and Soar guide our collective resolve. Now or Never,” Simuntala added.