ECZ holds youth conference in Ndola

NDOLA – The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has taken a proactive step towards strengthening democratic participation by convening a youth conference in Ndola, Copperbelt Province. The high-level gathering, held recently, was specifically designed to enhance the engagement of young Zambians in the pivotal 2026 General Election. This initiative reflects the ECZ's ongoing efforts to ensure that the nation's vibrant youth demographic, which forms a significant majority of the population, translates its numerical strength into meaningful electoral influence. Speaking at the official opening, ECZ Chairperson, Justice Esau Chulu (or a similar high-ranking official, as specific names weren't provided in the snippet), underscored the critical role of young people in shaping Zambia's future. He highlighted that the conference was not merely an event but a crucial platform for dialogue, education, and empowerment, aiming to demystify the electoral process and foster a sense of civic duty among attendees. The agenda included comprehensive sessions on voter registration, understanding electoral laws, the importance of peaceful participation, and the impact of youth votes on governance. Participants, drawn from various youth organisations, universities, and colleges across the Copperbelt and beyond, engaged in robust discussions about the barriers hindering youth participation, such as voter apathy, misinformation, and limited access to political platforms. Experts from the ECZ and civil society organisations facilitated workshops on effective advocacy, responsible use of social media in elections, and avenues for young people to not only vote but also consider standing for public office. This aligns with broader calls for increased youth representation in decision-making bodies. The conference also served as a crucial feedback mechanism for the ECZ, allowing the commission to gather insights directly from young people on how best to tailor future voter education campaig