Young leaders from various parts of the country had their capacities strengthened in meaningful youth participation, Local Government Act, and Access to Information Act through a training organized by Youth Initiative for Community Development (YICOD) in collaboration with Phalombe Youth Arms Organisation and All for Youth at Thope Lodge in Dowa.
The training aimed to empower youth leaders for meaningful participation, focusing on the Local Government Act and Access to Information Act, to amplify youth voices and agency in Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) budget and policy processes, addressing challenges faced by young people in Malawi.
Andrew Bwanali, YICOD Executive Director, stated that the training seeks to enhance young people's capacity to engage in SRHR budget and policy processes, amplifying their voices.
"We believe this training will enable young people to advocate for SRHR budgets and policies after seeking information from relevant authorities, as per the laws," he added.
Chifundo Harawa, Desk Officer for Access to Information at Malawi Human Rights, noted that the training aligns with MHRC's goals of promoting the right to access information.
"Access to information is crucial for youth development and empowerment, enabling informed decisions about community programs," Harawa told The Nation newspaper.
Lucie Bahana, a participant, said the training opened her eyes to laws surrounding access to information and SRHR budgeting processes, which she will share with her peers in Phalombe.
"I've learned a lot; there's a need to raise awareness about the Access to Information Act, so young people know they can seek information on policies and budgets affecting them."
The Commonwealth Foundation funds the project, "Amplifying youth voices and agency in SRHR budget and policy processes", with £26,000
