A group of young people in Area 36, Lilongwe is taking job creation into their own hands as unemployment continues to rise across the country.
The group has formed an entrepreneurship and skills club called Divine Youth Club, aimed at equipping peers with practical tools to earn a living.
Chairperson of the grouping Stuart Mtonga has told ProjectM that the initiative currently brings together 30 youths that meet regularly to share ideas, learn new skills, and support each other’s business efforts.
Mtonga said the club was born out of concern over the worsening job situation for young people in his area.
“We noticed that a lot of youths in our area had nothing tangible to do that can help them economically, a development which fuelled early marriages and teenage pregnancies,” Mtonga said.
According to Mtonga, idleness and lack of income opportunities were pushing many youths into risky social behaviors.
“The club was therefore designed as a response to keep them engaged and productive,” said Mtonga.
The club has introduced a series of training programs tailored to market needs with particular focus on hands-on skills that members can use to start small businesses or find employment.
“Youths under the grouping undergo training in tailoring, computer studies, sexual and reproductive health, just to mention a few,” he explained.
Cynthia Kambalu, who is one of the beneficiaries has commended the formulation of the group, saying it has helped her to learn practical skills needed to earn a living.
“I am now a fashion designer, thanks to the training I received from this group,” Kambalu said.
Currently, the club is planning to expand its membership and partner with other organizations to secure resources.
