Ishiwi - giving young people a voice in Zambia
Over 60% of Zambians are below the age of 24, yet many of the decisions shaping the nation are made by elders.
We, the young people, are not participating in the governance of our country. This program is helping us by encouraging us to get involved.
Young people lack access to youth-friendly information about politics, information about their rights and responsibilities, and opportunities to interact with those in power.
That’s where Ishiwi (My Voice) comes in, using media to prove that young people can effectively participate and bring about change and development in their society, given the correct knowledge, skills and guidance.
Supported by training and mentoring from BBC Media Action, a weekly, interactive magazine radio show is broadcast live by a young production team and features young contributors and well-known personalities. Topics discussed have included Zambia’s Bill of Rights, voter registration and political violence in the run up to the August 2016 elections.
Community listening groups, in addition to continuous research, provide feedback to ensure the programme content remains relevant to audiences.
“We, the young people, are not participating in the governance of our country. This program is helping us by encouraging us to get involved” said one listening group member.
Roadshows featuring musicians, celebrities and outdoor debates take the programme out in to the community. Audiences can participate by calling in to the programme, or via Facebook, Twitter and WhatsApp.
As part of the project, young volunteers are able to build up their inter-personal skills and knowledge about key governance issues – such as voting and rights – through training provided by Restless Development.Through school visits and community events, trainees are able to share their knowledge with other young people.
The project, run in partnership by BBC Media Action and Restless Development, covers 10 communities in Kabwe District in the Central Province of Zambia.
Project information
| Project name | Ishiwi - My Voice |
| Funder | Sida (since 2019); previously The Queen’s Young Leaders Programme |
| Dates | 2015-2018; 2019-2023 |
| Themes | Governance |
| Broadcast partners | KNC Radio |
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Ishiwi - giving young people a voice in Zambia
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