Youth in Kwango Raise Concerns Over Employment and Vocational Training

The youth of Kwango, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, have expressed concerns over the lack of employment opportunities, the need to promote local entrepreneurship, and access to relevant vocational training. These concerns were raised during the first ordinary general assembly of the Provincial Youth Council (CPJ) in Kenge. The assembly aimed to address the challenges faced by the youth in the region and to promote their participation in decision-making processes.

Espoir Lufalanka, President of the CPJ, highlighted the immense challenges faced by the youth in Kwango, including unemployment, the need to promote local entrepreneurship, and access to quality training that is adapted to the realities of the territories. He also emphasized the need to combat idleness and juvenile delinquency. Lufalanka called for increased participation of young people in decision-making bodies, enabling them to have a say in their own future.

The assembly was presented as a framework for expression, reflection, and action, marking a step towards a better-organized and more involved youth in their future. Lufalanka stated that for too long, the youth of Kwango had been spectators of their own destiny, but now they are laying the foundations for an organized, united, and strong youth with proposals. He thanked the provincial government for providing mobility means to the CPJ, which will facilitate its activities and proximity to young people.

However, Lufalanka requested that territorial councils also benefit from similar means to enhance their activities. He also acknowledged the commitment of national deputy Jonathan Wata to finance the completion of the building housing the CPJ office. Didier Kubanga, the executive secretary, presented the report of the structure since the installation of the current office, covering administrative organization, activities carried out, advocacy actions, difficulties encountered, and recommendations to revitalize the council.

The CPJ assembly brought together young people from different backgrounds to discuss their challenges and propose solutions. The participants emphasized the need for vocational training that is adapted to the local context, enabling young people to acquire skills that are relevant to the job market. They also called for the promotion of local entrepreneurship, which would create job opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the region.

The provincial government has been urged to prioritize the needs of the youth in Kwango, providing them with the necessary support to address their challenges. The government has been asked to work closely with the CPJ to develop policies and programs that promote youth empowerment and entrepreneurship. By doing so, the government can help to reduce unemployment and idleness among young people, and promote economic growth and development in the region.

The CPJ has pledged to continue advocating for the rights and interests of young people in Kwango, working closely with the provincial government and other stakeholders to address their challenges. The council has also committed to promoting youth participation in decision-making processes, ensuring that young people have a say in their own future. By working together, the youth of Kwango and the provincial government can build a brighter future for the region.

Key points

• The youth of Kwango are calling for increased employment opportunities, vocational training, and entrepreneurship support to address the challenges they face.