LocationsUNDP Youth-Led MSME Empowerment Programme Launched to Boost Entrepreneurial Capacity and Regional Market Access
June 5, 2025
The Youth-Led MSMES Upskilling Programme kicked off in Livingstone, training vibrant and dedicated young entrepreneurs in business management, digital skills and business development
Lusaka, Zambia, 3 June 2025 – The United Nations Development Programme in (UNDP) Zambia, in collaboration with Ministry of Youth, Sport and Art, is proud to announce the official launch of the Youth-Led MSME Empowerment Programme, aimed at upskilling the next generation of entrepreneurs across Zambia. This transformative programme, implemented by BongoHive, will support 200 youth-led Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) from Livingstone, Kitwe and Lusaka.
Designed to foster entrepreneurial growth, the programme focuses on building the capacity of young business owners, preparing them for investment opportunities, and helping them tap into regional markets through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The initiative offers a comprehensive approach that includes both online and in-person engagement and mentorship to ensure maximum impact and sustainability.
Key Highlights of the Programme include:
- Virtual Onboarding: Introducing participants to the programme's objectives, resources, and opportunities.
- In-Person Training Workshops: Providing essential skills and knowledge in Lusaka, Livingstone, and Kitwe to help MSMEs scale their businesses effectively.
- Virtual Mentorship & Pitch Preparation: Connecting participants with seasoned mentors to refine their business strategies and pitch readiness.
- Regional Pitch Competition: An exciting competition to be hosted in Lusaka by the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts, where participants from the three locations will showcase their businesses to a panel of judges for a chance to win.
Grant Awards & Investor Linkages:
The top 5 MSMEs in the competition will receive grants to invest into their businesses, alongside advanced mentorship and investor linkages to further accelerate their growth. These awards will give youth-led businesses the tools they need to thrive in the competitive regional markets facilitated by the AfCFTA.
A Transformative Journey for Zambia’s Youth Entrepreneurs
The Youth-Led MSME Empowerment Programme represents more than just business support; it’s a all encompassing pathway to success for young entrepreneurs, with the goal of unlocking their potential to become key players in the local and regional economy, as well as the broader digital economy. Through this initiative, the programme is set to create lasting impact by equipping young entrepreneurs with the skills, knowledge, and network to thrive in their economic endeavours.
This is a pivotal moment for Zambia’s youth-led businesses, and the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts and UNDP Zambia are committed to supporting young entrepreneurs to reach new heights and advance the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
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For more information and media interviews, contact:
Sharon Wekwete, Youth Programme Specialist, UNDP Zambia, sharon.wekwete@undp.org
Mercy Khozi, Communication Analyst, UNDP Zambia, mercy.khozi@undp.org
ABOUT UNDP
UNDP partners with people at all levels of society to help build nations that can withstand crisis, and drive and sustain the kind of growth that improves the quality of life for everyone. On the ground in some 177 countries and territories, we offer a global perspective and local insight to help empower lives and build resilient nations.
ABOUT THE MINISTRY OF YOUTH, SPORT AND ARTS
The Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts is responsible for the development and implementation of Youth, Sport and Arts development programmes in order to facilitate the realization of their full potential and contribute to their physical and mental well-being.
ABOUT BONGOHIVE
BongoHive is Zambia’s leading innovation and entrepreneurship hub, providing support to start-ups and entrepreneurs in Zambia and the region.
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