Restless Development Zambia has today launched the Tikambe Youth Resource Centre – an integrated place for young people to connect with each other.
The Tikambe Youth Centre will support young people’s access to services and information in relation to Comprehensive Sexuality Education, Youth-friendly Health Services, HIV prevention, prevention of Gender-based Violence and Child Marriages.
The launch, which attracted representatives from the Government of the Republic of Zambia, International Agencies, Multi-lateral and Bilateral Organisations, the Private Sector and Young People, reflected on areas of strengthening collaboration and partnerships as key drivers of achieving a level playing field for young people’s inclusion for sustainable development.
The centre will target young people, both in and out of school and will provide space for them to explore and access programs and services from a safe place to hang out, offer supportive counselling, including employment and educational opportunities. Having this centre, young people will be accorded the opportunity to express themselves through sharing ideas, networking and advocating for issues that affect their wellbeing.
Mr David Musonda, National Youth Development Council Chairperson
Mr Musonda, further adds that the centre complements governments efforts in providing services meant for young people in a youth-friendly, safe, confidential and non-judgmental environment.
During the launch, varying views were heard from young people on how they will benefit from the Youth Reosurce Centre.
They lauded Restless Development’s efforts and achievements made over the years it has implemented young people-tailored programming in Zambia with admiration on how it had tremendously changed their lives.
The centre will support young people on Sexual Reproductive Health, Accountability, Governance and Youth Economic empowerment in linking up with government priorities.
Brian Phiri, a young Restless Development Volunteer
The Tikambe Youth Centre is part of the work of the National Alliance on Monitoring the Implementation of the Eastern and Southern Africa Commitments composed of 30 Civil Society Organizations in Zambia.
