The Zambian capital, Lusaka, has long had a partnership with the municipality of Lidköping on the theme of youth influence. Currently, the partnership has two ongoing projects that, in addition to a strong focus on youth participation, also address engagement in environmental and climate issues.
“The knowledge you gain through the partnership collaboration is truly invaluable. The experience of learning from others is enormous. Sometimes we think our circumstances are completely different, but it’s surprising to see how many areas we meet in and how much we can learn and exchange information,” says Lusaka’s project manager Chisha C. Chakulanda, who is a health inspector at Lusaka Municipality.
Youth engagement in climate issues
One of the projects – “Climate Smart and Resilient Municipalities: Lidköping and City of Lusaka” – will end in 2025 and focuses on strengthening cooperation within and between the municipalities to mobilize resources and manage climate change effectively. Through activities with youth, politicians, civil servants, and civil society, the project aims to increase knowledge about circular economy, green and blue infrastructure, and youth influence. The project is part of ICLD’s climate network, and network activities have focused on strengthening organizational capacity in areas such as climate financing and youth participation at the municipal level.
A cornerstone of Lusaka City Council’s strategy is the inclusion of young people in their environmental and citizen initiatives. The collaboration has enabled the establishment of a youth council, which has developed into a significant platform for youth to take an active role in their communities. What initially started as discussions on waste management in schools has expanded to include central issues such as equality, participation, transparency, and accountability. This demonstrates the strong commitment of young people to create positive change.
Strengthened youth influence in local decision-making processes
The second project, named “Empowering Youth in Municipal Governance”, began in 2024 and works to strengthen the rights and engagement of young people in local decision-making processes, which are lacking in both Lusaka and Lidköping. The partners see many potential learning opportunities based on these similar challenges.
In Lusaka, communication about youth rights is insufficient, and there is a lack of willingness among responsible actors (institutions) to prioritize youth rights in local decision-making processes. In Lidköping, youth are underrepresented in local political decision-making, and there is a lack of meaningful youth engagement. As a result, there is a gap between young people and local governance. The project is part of ICLD’s youth influence network.
Participants from Lusaka City Council and Lidköping Municipality. Photo: ICLD
Building a foundation for sustainable development
Lusaka City Council’s partnership with Lidköping shows how inclusive governance can serve as a catalyst for democratic change at the local level. By focusing on youth influence and sustainability, Lusaka City Council demonstrates how local authorities can lead the way in shaping future resilient and climate-smart communties.