1. Plot # 2982 Bukavu Road, Thorn Park, P. O. Box 35440, Lusaka. Zambia
Youth Unemployment and Empowerment Initiatives,
A case for Luangwa District
THESIS PAPER FOR THE AWARD OF A DEGREE
MASTERS IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (MBA)
JOHN CHITUWO
MAY 2016.

2. i
Abstract
This study seeks to evaluate the extent of youth unemployment, as it affects young people in
Luangwa District of Lusaka Province. Further, this study also looks at the empowerment
initiatives being undertaken by the Government of the Republic of Zambia to help young
people take on entrepreneurship as a viable alternative to formal employment, and whether
such empowerment initiates are delivering the desired change on the ground.
In order to conduct the study, a sample of sixty (60) young people and five (5)
Government/Civil Society officials were interviewed. Young people were interviewed to
establish their employment status and whether they have benefited from any of the initiatives
by the Zambian Government aimed at empowering young people in the area. In additional, the
study also sought to assess the level of accessibility of the empowerment initiatives as well as
the level contentment among the beneficiaries. Government / Civil Society Officials were
interviewed to gain an understanding of the empowerment initiatives being undertaken in the
area to benefit young people.
Of the 60 young people interviewed, only 2 were found to be in formal employment while 15
said they were self-employed. The remaining 43 were neither employed formally nor were they
engaged in any productive activities as at the time of this study. Further, 24 young people
interviewed expressed ignorance about the presence of any empowerment initiatives in the
area. Out of the 36 that expressed knowledge of such initiatives and attempted to access
support, only 15 acknowledge having received favourable response on their applications.
The foregoing suggests a very critical level of unemployment among young people in Luangwa
District. However, the empowerment initiative being implemented in the area are having a
positive impact on young people albeit as a very small scale as evidenced by the few that can
now afford to meet their basic needs unlike before and are able to employ fellow youth.

3. ii
Acknowledgements
Foremost, I wish to take this opportunity to thank the omnipotent, omniscient and omnipresent
God for the grace, and for giving me the ability to do this work much in very difficult
circumstances. I dedicate this work to my grandparents, Mr Amos Cheso Chituwo (R.I.P) and
Lonika Chituwo, my wife Rachael Chola Mwase, My son, Mufutuli Chituwo and Sisters,
Annah, Jessica and Mercy Chituwo. A very special thank you to you, my lovely wife Rachael
for the love, support and encouragement that served to make this burden lighter. To my son
Mufutuli, thank you to giving us new strength and commitment towards each other and indeed
for the joy and happiness you have brought to the entire family – a saviour you are indeed.
May I also acknowledge the staff at University of Africa for their guidance and cooperation
through my studies. Special thanks to Dr. Mulenga, my supervisor and adviser for the critical
and analytical guidance. Many thanks also to my colleagues and friends at Luangwa Child
Development Agency, Dr. Danford Makayi – my boss, mentor and friend, Mr. Cholwe
Chikasha, Mr. Kebby Hakaminza and Mr. Handsen Phiri for their great contribution to this
work. You guys are great and keep up with the good work. Thanks are also due to government
officials, Mr. Jailos Simukoko (District Administrative Officer), Mr. Given Muleya (Council
Secretary) and Mr. Collins Chavuta (Social Welfare) for the great support and contribution
towards this work. To my brother and friend that I never had, Terence Siansalama, a great
thank you my friend for the support and for just being you – I owe on this one.
Last but not least, I also wish to thank family and friends, too numerous to mention, that
contributed to this work morally or otherwise to ease the burden of this project. I thank and
salute you all.

4. iii
Youth Unemployment and Empowerment Initiatives, a Case for Luangwa District.
A thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master’s in
Business Administration
By:
John Chituwo
Republic of Zambia
Declaration
The use of other people’s work be it from the printed, internet or other sources has been
appropriately acknowledge and referenced in accordance with academic writing requirements.
This thesis, Youth Unemployment and Empowerment Initiatives, a Case for Luangwa
District, is my own work.
Signature:
University of Africa,
Plot # 2982 Bukavu Road,Thorn Park,
P. O. Box 35440,
Lusaka,
Zambia.

5. iv
List of Abbreviations
CDF Constituency Development Fund
CSO Civil Society Organisation
EU European Union
GDP Gross Domestic Product
GMA Game Management Area
ILO International Labour Organisation
LCDA Luangwa Child Development Agency
LZNP Lower Zambezi National Park
MNC Multi – National Corporations
NEET Not in Education, Employment or Training
OECD Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development
OVC Orphan and Vulnerable Children
PACRA Patents And Companies Registration Agency
SAP Structural Adjustment Programme
SME Small – Medium Enterprises
STEP Skills Training and Employment Placement
UoA University of Africa
UN United Nations
ZAWA Zambia Wildlife Authority
ZNS Zambia National Service
List of Tables
Table 1.1 Zambia’s Age Structure (2014 Extrapolation).
Table 1.2 Student Enrolments in Luangwa Schools – Grade 7 – 12.
Table 4.1 Summary of Respondents by Gender.
Table 4.2 Employment Status is Luangwa.
Table 4.3 Education Vs Employment Status.
Table 4.4 Reasons for Early Exit from School.
Table 4.5 Accessibility of Youth Empowerment Initiatives.
Table 4.6 Success Rate among Youth Empowerment Initiatives.
Table 4.7 Youth Attitude Towards Self Employment and Entrepreneurship.

6. v
List of Figures
Figure 1.1 Zambia’s Age Structure (2014 Extrapolation).
Figure 1.2 Luangwa District Map.
Figure 2.1 Determinants of Youth Employment Outcomes.
Figure 4.1 Summary of Respondents by Gender.
Figure 4.2 Employment Status in Luangwa.
Figure 4.3 Education Vs Employment Status.
Figure 4.4 Reasons for Early Exit from School.
Figure 4.5 Proportion of Youth aware of Empowerment Initiatives in the Area
Figure 4.6 Proportion of Youth that Attempted to Access Empowerment Initiatives
Figure 4.7 Proportion of Youth that Received Empowerment Support
Figure 4.8 Proportion of Youth able to Support themselves & their Families
Figure 4.9 Proportion of Youth Confident of Offering Employment to Fellow Youth
Figure 4.10 Proportion of Youth employing at least 1 Employee in their businesses.
Figure 4.11 Proportion of Youth willing to venture in to Entrepreneurship
Figure 4.12 Proportion of Youth Currently Running Own Businesses.
Figure 4.13 Proportion of Youth Confident of expanding their businesses in the near future.
List of Annexes
Annex 1 Youth Employment – Interventions Beneficiaries Questionnaire
Annex 2 Youth Employment – Goal Holder (Key Informant) Questionnaire

7. vi
Table of Contents
Abstract......................................................................................................................................... i
Acknowledgements...................................................................................................................... ii
Declaration.................................................................................................................................. iii
List of Abbreviations .................................................................................................................. iv
List of Tables .............................................................................................................................. iv
List of Figures...............................................................................................................................v
List of Annexes.............................................................................................................................v
CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUTION .............................................................................................1
1.0 Introduction....................................................................................................................1
1.1 Youth Unemployment – Background Information ........................................................2
1.1.1 Trends in Africa Impacting on Youth Unemployment...........................................2
1.1.2 The Zambian Socio-economic Status .....................................................................3
1.1.3 Luangwa District Socio – economic Profile ...........................................................5
1.2 Problem Statement .........................................................................................................8
1.3 Research Objectives .......................................................................................................8
1.3.1 General Objective ...................................................................................................8
1.3.2 Specific Objectives and Research Questions..........................................................8
1.4 Significance of the Study ...............................................................................................9
1.5 Scope of Study ...............................................................................................................9
1.6 Study Structure.............................................................................................................11
1.7 Chapter Summary.........................................................................................................12
CHAPTER TWO: LITERATURE REVIEW.............................................................................13
2.0 Overview of the Literature Review..............................................................................13
2.1 Concept Definitions and Theoretical Framework ........................................................13
2.1.1 Concept Definitions – Unemployment and Empowerment......................................13
2.1.2 Theories on Youth Unemployment – Why Youth Unemployment is High. ........14
2.1.2.1 The Youth “Bulge”...........................................................................................14
2.1.2.2 Modern day Urbanization.................................................................................15
2.1.2.3 Regulation of the Labour Market.....................................................................16
2.1.2.4 Mismatch between the Demand and Supply of skills ......................................16
2.1.3 Conceptual Framework - Determinants of Youth Employment outcomes..........17

8. vii
2.1.3.1 Labour Demand Side – Economic Growth and Job Creation ..........................17
2.1.3.2 Labour Supply Side..........................................................................................18
2.1.3.3 Labour Market Institution – Mediation............................................................19
2.1.3.4 Government Policies to Address Youth Employment .....................................19
2.1.3.5 Empowerment Initiatives .................................................................................19
2.2 Policy Framework – Youth Unemployment in Zambia...............................................20
2.2.1 Background.................................................................................................................20
2.2.2 Current Strategies and Initiatives being implemented................................................21
2.2.2.1 The Citizens Economic Empowerment Fund...................................................21
2.2.2.2 Business Development Support Programmes ..................................................22
2.2.2.3 Zambia National Service Skills Training Programme .....................................22
2.2.3 Achievements scored on Policy Framework in Place ................................................22
2.3 Comparative Studies ....................................................................................................23
2.3.1. Addressing Youth Unemployment – Lessons from Ghana ..................................23
2.4 Critique of Literature Review ......................................................................................25
2.4.1 Official definition of Unemployment Vs Realities on the Ground.......................25
2.4.2 Why Youth Unemployment is High .....................................................................26
2.4.3 Determinants of Youth Employment Outcomes –Demand and Supply Concept27
2.4.4 Policy and Legislative Inconsistencies .................................................................28
2.4.5 Informal Sector and Formal Systems....................................................................29
2.5 Chapter Summary.........................................................................................................29
CHAPTER THREE: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY .............................................................31
3.0 Overview......................................................................................................................31
3.1 Research Design...........................................................................................................31
3.2 Data Collection Methods, Techniques and Tools ........................................................32
3.3 Data Analysis Methods, Techniques and Instruments .................................................32
3.4 Sampling Design ..........................................................................................................32
3.5 Limitations of Study.....................................................................................................33
3.6 Ethical Considerations..................................................................................................33
3.7 Chapter Summary.........................................................................................................34
CHAPTER FOUR: DATA PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION .......................................35

9. viii
4.0 Data Presentation Overview.........................................................................................35
4.1 Youth Empowerment Initiatives Implemented in Luangwa District ...........................35
4.2 Youth Unemployment and Empowerment Initiatives –Sampled beneficiaries ...........37
4.3 Analysis of Data...........................................................................................................47
4.3.1 Employment Status...............................................................................................47
4.3.1.1 Proportion of Young People in Employment...................................................47
4.3.2 Employment Status versus Education...................................................................47
4.3.2.1 Reasons for Early Exit from Schools in the District. .......................................47
4.3.2.2. Relationship between Education and Employment Status...............................48
4.3.3 Youth Empowerment Initiatives.................................................................................48
4.3.3.1 Accessibility of Youth Empowerment Initiatives ............................................49
4.3.3.2 Success Rate among Youth Empowerment Beneficiaries ...............................49
4.3.3.3 Youth Attitudes towards Entreprenuership......................................................50
4.4 Chapter Summary.........................................................................................................51
CHAPTER 5: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS................................................52
5.0 Overview......................................................................................................................52
5.1 Conclusions..................................................................................................................52
5.2 Recommendations........................................................................................................53
References...................................................................................................................................55
Annex 1. Youth Employment – Intervention Beneficiary Questionnaire................................59
Annex 2. Youth Employment – Intervention Goal Holder (Key Informant) Questionnaire ...63

10. 1
CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUTION
1.0 Introduction
Youth unemployment has been a serious problem in most parts of the world including
Zambia with adverse effects on young people. Unemployment has been defined by the
OECD as a situation were people aged 15 and over who are without work during the reference
week, being available for work and actively seeking work during the previous four weeks
including the reference week (OECD, 2015).
Youth unemployment has a number of social effects at personal, family, community and
national levels. Among the undesirable social effects of unemployment are reduced levels of
happiness, cultural and social exclusion, stress and employment worries, all of which could
result in mental health problems such as depression, alcohol and substance abuse, as can be
seen on most of the Zambian streets today (Nedeljkovic, 2014). Further, youth unemployment
has also been known to contribute to public nuisance especially in markets and stations were
formal structures are not fully functional due to interference by unruly young people – mainly
political cadres who collect heretical fees from operators, marketers and the general public,
thereby robbing local government institutions and indeed central government of the much
needed revenue to fulfil their mandates (War on Want, 2007). Crime and political hooliganism
have also been cited by many scholars as an indirect result of young people not having means
of survival (Hibbert, 2014).
From the economic perspective, there is loss of productivity in the economy resulting in low
gross domestic product (GDP) as those unemployed do not contribute directly to the
development of their communities through work. Being without work also entails that the
young people will not have an income, which means they cannot contribute to the national
treasury through payment of taxes and also through consumption of goods and services which
should further promote economic activity (Economic Help, 2015).
The issues cited above have been and continue to be experience in the Zambian society. Thus,
this study seeks to evaluate the extent of youth unemployment, as it affects young people in
Luangwa District of Lusaka Province. Further, this study also looks at the empowerment

11. 2
initiatives being undertaken by the government, and other co-operating partners, to help young
people take on entrepreneurship as a viable alternative to formal employment.
The rest of this chapter will focus on the background of the youth unemployment problem,
contextualise the African and Zambian scenarios with regards to the problem and introduce
Luangwa District, which is the chosen area for this study.
1.1 Youth Unemployment – Background Information
The importance of youth unemployment can hardly be overestimated. The youth are the
potential and future of every country and governments with a long-term vision for welfare and
development in their countries are concerned with the best ways to integrate the youth into the
labour force. The topic has been receiving media attention and has been discussed in many
business and policy forums. Youth unemployment rose by 26.5% between 2008 and 2011;
leaving a staggering global population of nearly 75 million people aged 15-24 without a jobs.
While our industry strove to get the right students into the right educational institutes around
the world, and to enhance their skills through language learning, apprenticeship or internship
experience, others questioned the value of higher education these days due to the limited
opportunities for jobs (ICEF Monitor, 2012).The rest of this section discusses the background
to youth unemployment in Africa, Zambia and Luangwa District.
1.1.1 Trends in Africa Impacting on Youth Unemployment
There are 200 million people in Africa between 15 and 24 years of age. This represents about
20% of the world’s total population. According to the Population Research Bureau, Africa has
the fastest growing and most youthful population in the world. Over 40 percent of its
population is under 15. Africa’s high fertility rate is responsible for this. This demographic
finding portends both challenges and opportunities. The challenges are economic and social;
both are highly connected. As the population expands, jobs must be created. If these jobs are
not enough, there will be many young people who are unemployed. According to the
International Labor Organization, 3 out of 5 unemployed people in Africa are young people
(Awosusi, 2012). The foregoing shows the urgency of the problem of youth unemployment.
With over 60 % of the continents population being below 24 years, it already shows that the
majority of the people living on the continent, being young and unemployed are wallowing in
poverty and thus doing very little to contribute to the productivity of the continent.

12. 3
The World Bank Report titled ‘Youth Employment in Africa: the potential, the problem and the
promise’ notes that youth unemployment is more prevalent in urban areas. Worsening
conditions in the rural areas lead to rural-urban migration. This compounds the unemployment
challenge in the urban centers as young people seek an improved quality of life by migrating to
cities, which usually do not adequate enough facilities for housing and other amenities to house
the growing population (The Independent Evaluation Group, 2013). This inevitably leads to
other problems, ranging from illegal settlements to water and sanitation problems resulting in
desease and other social vices. This aspect also points to the need deal with the root cause of
rural – urban migration by providin opportunities in rural areas that will keep young people
productively occupied.
With the problem of youth unemployment being the norm rather than the exception, young
people are readily available for anti-social criminal activities that undermine the stability of
society. An unstable society increases the risk of the market. This scares investors, as Jorge
Saba Arbache of the Africa Region of the World Bank alludes ‘unemployed and
underemployed youth are more exposed to conflicts and illegal activities. Many of them fall
prey to armed and rebel conflicts’ (Cramer, 2011). Most African nations today are witnesses of
untold hooliganism perpetrated by young people, often bribe with inexpensive items such as
food and alcohol. This is often done by the strong few who may wish to use intimidation to
push their agenda, politicians being the main culprits in this area.
1.1.2 The Zambian Socio-economic Status
Zambia is one of many developing countries struggling to create adequate employment
opportunities for itspeople, especially in the formal economy. Unemployment is highest
among youths (15–24 years old) and particularly affects those without skills, having drop out
of school and without college or university education. Unless the challenge of youth
unemployment is met, Zambia could face rising poverty levels in the future (Grayson Koyi,
2013).
As statistics already show, young people in Zambia below the age 24 years today comprise
approximately 66% of the total population making it one of the youngest in the region. (Young
people aged 15 – 24 years account for 20% of the population while those below 15 account for
46.2 %) (Central Statistical Office, 2012). Unfortunately, the country’s GDP (see chart below)
in recent years has not translated into sustained employment growth and has resulted in the

13. 4
country retaining a youth employment rate of 23%, for much of the period between 2005 and
2014. Further, 86% of young Zambians are estimated to be living in poverty and at 31%, the
rate of joblessness reveals that about 1 in every 4 Zambians aged 15-24 years’ experience
social educational and economic exclusion associated with unemployment (Index Mundi,
2014).
Figure 1.1 Zambia’s GDP Annual Growth Rate 2005 – 2014.
Source: (Trading Economics, 2014)
Available statistics also suggest a divide between urban and rural employment opportunities.
Zambia is considered one of Africa’s’ most urbanised countries with approximately 35% of the
population residing in the urban areas. With the urbanisation trend, continuing, the rate of
youth unemployment in urban areas is pronounced at 47% and is more than double that of rural
areas (21%). The Zambian scenario is not different from the rest of the continent having been
exacerbated by massive migration of young people from rural to urban areas in search of
opportunities (Index Mundi, 2014).
The other factor underscoring the divide between rural and urban areas is the existence of the
large agriculture sector. Although copper is the mainstay of Zambia’s economy, agriculture
contributes approximately 18% to the national GDP and employs about 75% of the Zambian
workforce. Thus youth residing in rural areas are typically sustained by direct and informal
employment opportunities in this sector (Zille, 2011). It is however important to state here that
most of the young people employed in the agriculture sector are not in employment by choice,

14. 5
but rather as an alternative as they await better opportunities to arise. Also contributing to the
statistics in the agricultural sector are works performed by family members and relatives, often
for no pay, or in exchange for shelter and food, which in public perspective does not count as
employment (Mujenja, 2014).
Zambia, like many other developing countries was affected by the global recession of 2008 that
saw employment rates for youth dwindle, most of whom saw a moderate or significant
decrease in wage employment. Changes in the economy often have a larger effect on youth
unemployment rate than the overall unemployment rate mainly due to the fact that the youth
are in the majority in Zambia and also because young people are predominantly moving from
learning institutions into the labour market and as a result, when there is a general hiring
freeze, the youth unemployment rate grows at a rather more disproportionate rate.
Effects of limited economic growth also have compounded the problem of youth
unemployment as it has resulted in fewer opportunities for employment in the economy
especially in developing countries. Zambia’s’ formal sector shrunk tremendously following the
implementation of the Structural Adjustment Programs (SAP) that saw a number of parastatals
failing, and eventually closing down resulting in massive job losses (Jauch, 2012).
Social vices associated with youth unemployment as evident in Zambia today where young
people have taken to illicit activities in order to earn a living (Zambia Reports, 2014)
1.1.3 Luangwa District Socio – economic Profile
Luangwa district is one of the districts in Lusaka Province covering an approximately area of
3,886 square kilometres in the eastern part of the Province. Luangwa district borders with
Rufunsa District in the north, Kafue District in the west as well as Mozambique and Zimbabwe
in the east and south respectively. Most of the district is covered by the Lower Zambezi
National Park (LZNP) and Rufunsa Game Management Area (GMA). The main township for
the district is located at the confluence of Luangwa and Zambezi rivers. It is approximately 325
kilometres from Lusaka City following the major route through the Great East Road (T4) and
D145. The district township is connected to the Great East road through the 87 kilometres
previously gravel road (Currently being upgraded to bituminous standard).

15. 6
Generally, the district is divided into two categories of land: the traditional and local
government owned land. The district has a Game Management Area (GMA) that is managed
by Zambia Wildlife Authority (ZAWA). The state land (GMA) covers 60% of the District area
with at least 40% being traditional land. (Ministry of Health - Luangwa DMO, 2011)
The demographic profile for Luangwa District as it compares with the national figures is
tabulated below:
Table 1.1. Zambia’s Age Structure (2014 extrapolations)
Age
Group
Zambia Luangwa District Proportion
of Total
Population
No. of
Male
No. of
Females
Total No. of
Male
No. of
Females
Total
0-14 3,393,388 3,362,850 6,756,238 6,265 6,209 12474 46.20%
15-24 1,465,009 1,467,555 2,932,564 2,705 2,708 5413 20.00%
25-54 2,105,768 2,072,314 4,178,082 3,888 3,826 7714 28.50%
55-65 199,098 222,214 421,312 368 410 778 2.90%
Over 65 151,471 198,838 350,309 280 367 647 2.40%
Totals 7,314,734 7,323771 14,638,505 13,506 13,518 27,026 100.00%
Source: (Central Statistical Office, 2012 – National) and (MoH - Luangwa DMO, 2011)
The population distribution in the District is concentrated in the eastern part of the District and
dispersed along the D145 and major feeder roads. However, the section of the D145 between
Mphuka and the Township is unpopulated owing to the rough terrain of the area. Luangwa
District has the lowest population density of 5.5 persons per square km in Zambia .The low
population density of Luangwa District can be attributed to the presence of a National Park
and Game Management Area (GMA) which take up most of the District. This has resulted in a
number of undeveloped areas in the district and most of the district population being
concentrated along the D145 road in an attempt to avoid human animal conflict. However, in
comparison with the other areas, the township is more densely populated with economic
activities not so different from other region in the country (COMACO, 2014).
Although the Luangwa district is among the oldest in Zambia, not much has been documented
in terms of the progression of youth unemployment in the District. While provincial data
indicates that Lusaka province has an average annual labour force growth rate of 5.8% and the

16. 7
labour force participation rate is 72.8%, having increased from 65.6% in 2008, Luangwa
unique features from the rest of the province entails that it benefits the lease as the factors cited
in the foregoing relate to formal sector employment, agriculture and the informal sector. These
factors have not changed much in the case of Luangwa district (Central Statistical Office).
Among the problems that have impacted negatively on Luangwa’s poor employment record is
the low economic development in the district that has been caused by lack of investment and
modern technology, poor infrastructure and harsh environmental and geographical conditions
which have made investment in the area unattractive. The situation is further compounded by
an economic landscape that is even more hostile to young people owing to the lean
economy characterized primarily by activities practiced at a subsistence level due to adverse
weather patterns such persistent floods and/ or droughts in the area. This is in addition to the
human-animal conflicts often experienced resulting in very little horticultural and agricultural
activities being practiced to satisfy even the readily available market in the area. Economic
activities linked to the agriculture sector depend mainly on rain-fed crops and research has
revealed that these activities include agriculture and fishing accounting for 27.7% and 19.0% of
the economic activities in the district respectively (Zulu, 2011).
It is evident that Zambia’s population is overwhelmingly young, similar to other Sub-Saharan
countries, and the youth make up a large share of the labour force. Africa is experiencing a
youth bulge, and Zambia is no exception. According to 2010 estimates, 82 percent of the
population (roughly 5 million people) is 35 or younger, and 66 percent (about 3 million) is 24
or younger. At 66 percent, youth (ages 15–35) also make up a large share of the total labour
force. Zambia’s population and labour force will continue to grow fast in the coming decades.
Even if fertility declines, Zambia’s population is estimated to almost double by 2030 (World
Bank, 2013). This therefoe means that youth unemployment as a problem is a serious one,
calling for urgent holistic and comprehensive initiatives to halt it’s effects and begin to reverse
the trends to a level where young people will participate fully in driving the economic wheels
of this country.

17. 8
1.2 Problem Statement
The problem being addressed by this study is the high “Unemployment”1
levels among
young people aged 15 – 24 years in Luangwa District of Zambia. Minor problems being
addressed by the study are the availability and accessibility of “Youth”2
“Empowerment
Initiatives”3
, and Entrepreneurship Opportunities that can viably sustain young people in
the absence of paid employment.
1.3 Research Objectives
1.3.1 General Objective
To evaluate the extent of youth unemployment and the effectiveness of the youth
empowerment initiatives implemented in Luangwa District to alleviate problems of youth
unemployment.
1.3.2 Specific Objectives and Research Questions
Research Objectives Research Questions
a. To evaluate the extent of unemployment
in Luangwa District.
a. What is the proportion of young people in
employment in Luangwa District?
b. To establish the reasons for early or
premature exit from learning institutions
and how it affects the employability of
young people.
b. i) What are the reasons for early or
premature exit from school?
ii) What is the relationship between the
education and employment status among
young people in Luangwa District?
c. To assess the accessibility of youth
empowerment initiatives.
c. i) How many young people are aware of
youth empowerment support in Luangwa
1
“Unemployment” will refer to the absence of work for pay or wage employment for people actively seeking
work.
2
“Youth” will refer to young people aged 15 – 24 years – being the aged group that is normally considered for
Empowerment Initiatives
3
“Empowerment Initiatives” will refer to support by government and other CSOs in terms of entrepreneurial
skills, start up capital and equipment aimed at making youth self reliant and independent.

18. 9
District?
ii) What is the proportion of young people
accessing empowerment support from
among those that are aware?
d. To evaluate the effectiveness of youth
empowerment initiatives in addressing
youth unemployment.
d. To what extent are beneficiaries of youth
empowerment support able to meet their
daily needs and extend help to fellow
youth?
e. To analyse the youth attitudes towards self
employment and Entrepreneurship.
e. What are the attitudes of young people
towards self employment and
entrepreneurship?
1.4 Significance of the Study
The significance of this study to the socio economic well being of Zambia cannot be over
emphasised given the demographic data which alludes to the fact that our country’s population
is predominantly young, Zambia stands to benefit from this demographic dividend, if young
people are equipped with the right skills; are meaningfully involved, and deployed in the
various productive sectors of the economy. (Ministry of Finance and National Planning, 2014)
Therefore, the main aim of this paper is to direct attention of scholars and policy makers to the
problem of youth unemployment in Zambian by highlighting the gravity of the problem. This
study is also expected to evaluate the effectiveness of any actions and initiatives undertaken so
far for purposes of stimulate policy debate on the various models from across the continent
that have been employed in dealing with the problem of youth unemployment, with the hope of
finding potential solutions to what is fast becoming a global problem.
Further, this study is also being undertaken as a partial fulfilment of the requirement for the
award a Masters in Business Administration Degree from the University of Africa (UoA).
1.5 Scope of Study
This study focuses on youth unemployment and empowerment initiatives as they affect young
people aged 15-24 years resident in Luangwa District of Zambia’s Lusaka Province. The field
work covered selected young people living around Tigwilizane, Chikondwelelo and

19. 10
Mandombe Communities, which form the main areas of habitation for Luangwa residents as
shown in figure 1 – 2 below.
Unemployed adults above the normal college or university graduation age, 25 years and above
do not form part of this study. The minimum age limits for child employment shall also apply
as provided for by the ILO minimum age convention (C138) of 1973 – which defines child
labour as work performed by children under the age of 12, non-light work done by children
aged 12-14, and hazardous work done by children aged 15-17 years (International Labour
Organisation, 1996-2012). Thus young people between ages 15 – 17 years who may be
employed in hazardous work will not form part of this study also.
Young people in this age group that are still in school have also been excluded from this study.
As follows,
Table 1.2 – Students Enrolments in Luangwa Schools – Grade 7 – 12
Grades & Enrolment G.7 G.8 G.9 G.10 G.11 G.12
2012 741 795 754 386 429 439
2013 806 886 836 502 509 541
2014 (Excluded) 952 1047 988 593 601 639
Total Children up to 7th grade are mostly 15 years and
above of age in rural areas. 4820
Source: (Nchimunya, 2014) – Ministry of Education – Luangwa District Education Board
(DEBS)

20. 11
Figure 1. 2 Luangwa District Map
Source: (Chikasha) – Luangwa Child Development Agency (LCDA)
1.6 Study Structure
This study will be structured as outlined below:
i. Literature Review of theoretical concepts, supporting studies and discussion of policies
and legislation relating to youth unemployment. Also to be considered in this chapter
are previous studies on the subject, any comparative studies and a critique of the
Literature in this section.
ii. Research Methodology covering the design of the research, data collections tools,
techniques and instruments to used in the research, data collection and analysis methods
used, the sampling design, any limitation to the study and ethical considerations
iii. Data Presentation and discussion will show statistical data collected, analysed and
presented in the form of tables and figures as well as the analysis of the data presented
iv. Conclusion and Recommendations of the study will be presented in this section

21. 12
1.7 Chapter Summary
Zambia’s situation makes an interesting reading due to its unique demographic makeup.
Zambia as a country is predominantly inhabited by young people, with more than 66% of the
population being below 24 years and 95% being below 55 years (Index Mundi, 2014). As such,
it is critically important that this resource which is currently underutilised is marshalled to
contribute towards the growth and prosperity of the nation. However, employment cannot be
divorced from education and the economic performance. As such these aspects shall be
referred to in this study as they affect availability of jobs and entreprenueral opportunities
in the economy.
While data on exactly how many young people are already participating in youth
empowerment initiatives in Zambia and most developing countries are yet to be collected,
available studies show that young people in some parts of the world are actively involved in
running their own businesses, providing a viable and sustainable option to direct formal
employment. In the United Kingdom, a Barclays Bank survey (1997) of young entrepreneurs
aged 18-24 years found a ‘flourishing youth enterprise culture’. The survey revealed that 65.0
percent of the youth entrepreneurs worked from home, 40.0 percent alone, and 14.0 percent
had a single employee and about 17.0 percent employed six or more people (Chingunta, 2002).
Could this be the answer to the problem of youth unemployment in Zambia and especially
in rural areas? This study sets out to provide some answers on the current status of youth
unemployment in rural Zambia, particularly focusing on Luangwa District of Lusaka
Province, as well as to evaluate the effectiveness of the youth empowerment initiatives
being undertaken by the government and other civil soceity organisations to negate the
harmful effects of youth unemployment.

22. 13
CHAPTER TWO: LITERATURE REVIEW
2.0 Overview of the Literature Review
The United Nations define youth as the age group between 15 and 24 years. Variation in the
definitions of individual countries’ official statistics makes cross-country comparisons difficult
(Görlich, Stepanok, & Al-Hussami, 2012). This study however focuses on unemployment as it
affects young people going through the “normal” stages of life as children, adolescents and
young adults – particularly young people falling within UN definition. This age group has
specifically been selected due the unique challenges they face in the chosen location of this
study. Since it is not possible to discuss employment without having to refer to education, the
study focuses on what happens to young people when they leave school as drop – outs at any
level in the education system; as school leavers not able to attain college or university
education – presumably ready to take up unskilled job opportunities; and as graduates from
colleges and universities ready for the skilled workforce. The former two scenarios are more
prevalent for young people in Luangwa District than the latter, hence the choice of the age
group and study location. Further, The minimum age limits for child employment shall also
apply as provided for by the ILO minimum age convention (C138) of 1973 – which defines
child labour as work performed by children under the age of 12, non-light work done by
children aged 12-14, and hazardous work done by children aged 15-17 years (International
Labour Organisation, 1996-2012).
In this chapter, concepts of Unemployment and Empowerment are defined, and the discussion
continues through the theoretical framework of youth unemployment, government policies in
place to address youth unemployment in Zambia, previous and comparable studies that have
been conducted this area before concluding with an overall analysis of the literature covered in
this section.
2.1 Concept Definitions and Theoretical Framework
2.1.1 Concept Definitions – Unemployment and Empowerment
Unemployment and Empowerment a very broad terms that are defined differently depending
on the context in which they are discussed. For purposes of this study, we shall adopt Collins
Harpers’ definition of unemployment as referring to a situation where an individual is unable
or unlikely to get a paid employment because of lack of qualifications or skills (Harper, 2009).

23. 14
In other words, it is a stake of being without paid or gainful job making one’s sustenance of life
difficult as they cannot be able to finance their own essential needs. To this definition we may
wish to add the absence of opportunity, as the case maybe in Zambia were young graduates
with qualification or some form of skill are not able to find employment. The official definition
however is slightly different if the opposite is deduced from the official definition of
employment as adopted by the Central Statistical Office. Thus in Zambia, a person is employed
if in the period concerned they performed work for pay either in cash or kind, barter or family
gain – Official CSO (Mujenja, 2014). Empowerment on other hand is defined as “an
attitudinal, structural, and cultural process whereby young people gain the ability, authority and
agency to make decision and implement change in their own lives and the lives others”
(Ministry of Youth and Sport , 2015). In other words, empowerment refers to the whole
transformation of a person’s life following the gain of some form of ability, which could refer
to skills and financial resources which gives them the confidence to do something with their
own situation in order that they and the people around them may experience better lives. For
purposes of this study, the concepts of Unemployment and Empowerment shall be discussed as
adopted in this section.
2.1.2 Theories on Youth Unemployment – Why Youth Unemployment is High.
Youth unemployment is blighting a whole generation of young people. The International
Labour Organization estimates there are 75 million 15-to-24-year-olds are looking for work
across the globe. But this figure excludes a large number of young people who do not
participate in the labour market at all. Among the 34 members of the OECD, a club of rich
nations, it is estimated there are 26 million youths not in education, employment or training
(so-called NEETs). Similarly, across the developing countries, the World Bank estimates that
there are 262 million such youths. All told, there are perhaps as many as 290 million 15-to-24-
year-olds not participating in the labour market— almost a quarter of the world’s youth, and a
group almost as large as the population of America. More young people are idle now than ever
before. (Görlich, Stepanok, & Al-Hussami, 2012). Below we analyse some of the reasons why
unemployment is so high especially in recent times.
2.1.2.1 The Youth “Bulge”
Paul Zille and Jessica Benjamin attribute the increasing youth unemployment crisis to the
“youth bulge” being experienced by most developing countries. According the United Nations,
there are 1.03 billion between ages 15-24 years worldwide accounting for approximately 18%
of the world’s population. Of this number, 870 million live in developing countries, an

24. 15
overwhelming 84% of the world youth population. This represents the largest ever youth group
recorded history and refers to what is known as the “youth bulge”
A country incurs a youth bulge when the population under 24 years is larger than all other age
groups. The skewed demographic distribution is generally attributed to an increased birth rate,
declining infant mortality rate and overall improvement in the health that have occurred in
most developing countries over the last few decades.
Some people may argue that a youth bulge present opportunities to a country in the sense that a
youthful population gainfully employed will directly contribute a lessening inequality in
incomes and access to opportunity. On average however, low economic growth in Africa has
manifested itself in low economic activity on which young people can be employed, low
investment and small formal labour market that have left most of the youth cohorts
unemployed. Many African young people have as a result of this meagre job prospect given up
seeking work and most have never been a part of the labour market (Zille & Benjamin, 2011).
2.1.2.2 Modern day Urbanization
Further complicating the issue of youth employment is the trend on urbanisation with the entire
continent of Africa being classed as an urban continent. Africa’s urban population has grown
from about 5% 100 years ago to 40% at present time and predicted to hit 50% by the year
2025. Urbanisation would seem like a positive trend for the most but the slow economic
growth over the last 50 years of independence has resulted in most city dwellers living in
slums, without durable housing or legal rights to their land, a situation that can best be
described as squatting and pointing to the high levels of poverty of which the largest
contributor is joblessness (Opennheimetr, Spicer, Trejos, Zille, & Cavallo, 2011).
Joblessness seems endemic to Africa especially among the youth. Youth unemployment / under
employment in some countries is as high as 80% including in relatively well performing
African countries such as Mozambique and Ghana. With increases in population that have not
been matched with the increase in employment opportunities the situation has only become
worse in the recent times. Taking Zambia as an example, in 1964, Zambia, with a population of
only about 3 million inhabitants, had approximately 300,000 formal jobs. Currently, Zambia’s

25. 16
population stands at over 13 million but Zambia only has about 500,000 formal sector jobs
excluding public sector jobs – again with most young people still unemployed (National
Economic Advisory Council, 2012).
2.1.2.3 Regulation of the Labour Market
Poor employment records among most African countries have been attributed to the new and
strengthened labour laws in most countries that have seemed less favourable to most
employers. Tight regulation of the labour market has become associated, to a larger extent,
with increases in the costs of with hiring and firing employees that most employers now seek to
avoid. Minimum wage pronouncement, implied permanent employment for casual jobs and
heavy severance packages introduced under recent labour laws have stifled market flexibility
much to the resentment of the employers who have now taken on capital intensive projects,
shorter term work contracts and outsourcing of non-core activities to avoid contractual
obligations associated with employment. Further, escalating wage rates are way ahead of
productivity improvements. Africa in particular is said to have a poor productivity record. Ben
Leo notes that despite the 2000s being the best growth decade on record in sub-Saharan-
Africa, labour participation rates have remained drastically low. The continents productivity
increased only by 25% compared to that of East and south Asia that increased by close to 50%.
While the regulation of labour markets may have brought about improved pay and working
conditions for the workers, employers flexibility has been stifled to a point where employers do
a lot of scheming and planning to avoid breaking the law but also resort to schemes that are
less beneficial for the general populous as the case maybe when a company chooses to
computerise and outsource some of its functions (Opennheimer, Spicer, Trejos, Zille, &
Cavallo, 2011).
2.1.2.4 Mismatch between the Demand and Supply of skills
The mismatch between the demand and supply of skills possessed by young workers has been
mentioned to contribute to higher youth unemployment rates . Earlier survey accross the
OECD countries show that there is a relationship between skills mismatch and total
unemployment (Coenjaerts C.etal, 2009). The skill mismatch issue is particularly important in
the developing world. For example, firm surveys in the Middle East and North African regions
show that entrepreneurs regularly cite the lack of skills as an important constraint to hiring, in
some cases suggesting that it outweighs concerns with labour market regulations (Assaf,
2003). Skill mismatch, combined with a growing share of youth (Youth Bulge) in the labour

26. 17
force in Middle East and North African regions, has created a situation in which too many
young people have a hard time finding jobs (Assaad, 2007).
2.1.3 Conceptual Framework - Determinants of Youth Employment outcomes
The conceptual framework has been discussed in the context of the World Banks’ Independent
Evaluation Group model for the determinants of youth employment outcomes. The model
identifies different players in what can be termed as the labour market supply chain. The model
identifies two extreme ends as being the supply of, and the demand for skills and attributes by
the employers. The supply side refers to the education system producing school leavers and
graduates of diverse attributes, level of education and experience while the demand side refers
to the employing companies and industries who seek workers with certain attributes, education
and experience. Unlike the commodity markets where forces of demand and supply interact
freely thereby allowing for market equilibrium and price fixation, the labour market almost
always will have excess labour, resulting in the high unemployment rates (The Independent
Evaluation Group, 2013).
The model presupposes a functional micro-economic, political and governance environment
that are supportive of free and fair interaction of the forces. This means that the variables in the
economy must be right to support and compliment these cycles. The model is represented
diagrammatically in figure 2.1 below.
2.1.3.1 Labour Demand Side – Economic Growth and Job Creation
The government has a role to play here to ensure that the fundamentals are conducive for
economic growth and job creation. Issues is this area border around encouraging activity in the
economy the provision of infrastructure to encourage development in areas that otherwise
would not see development, offering tax holidays, maintaining interest within manageable
levels to ensure business community is able to access finance at affordable prices (Anne C.
Peterson, 2006). The Zambian government has made strides in this area by way of
infrastructure development, monetary policy matters to term interest and exchange rate
movements; and giving tax holidays to mining companies.

27. 18
Figure 2.1 Determinants of Youth Employment outcomes
Source: Adapted from (The Independent Evaluation Group, The World Bank Group, 2013)
2.1.3.2 Labour Supply Side
Lack of skilled labour in an economy poses as a major constraint for doing business. A quick
look at most companies requirements for most jobs would indicate the need for tertiary
education of some sort which may disqualify most youth who may not have had an opportunity
for tertiary education. Some jobs require an array of skills that certain people may not have
regardless of the level of education attained thereby acting as a barrier for them to access
employment
The extent to which demographics affect youth employment tends to vary from one locality to
another depending on the magnitude of demographic changes, the capacity of the economy to
create jobs as well as the flexibility of the labour market. Some jobs are regarded as being a
preserve of as certain age group thereby creating a barrier for people in other age groups (The
Independent Evaluation Group, The World Bank Group, 2013).
This is however is not a factor in the case of Zambia as there are enough tertiary insitutions
releasing graduates at the rate that the labour market is not even able to contain.

28. 19
2.1.3.3 Labour Market Institution – Mediation
The availability of labour market information and the ease with which it can be accessed
affects both the supply and demand sides of the labour market. Employers would significantly
reduce the costs of hiring if such information was easily accessible in a form that it could be
used. The same is true for job seekers as they would access information about what
opportunities are available and the requirements. This therefore means that there should be a
reliable “intermediary” for the “suppliers” of labour and those that demand for this labour to
eliminate the virtual barrier that exist between the two parties (The Independent Evaluation
Group, The World Bank Group, 2013).
Zambia has in the recent past seen the mushrooming of recruitment agencies and online
platforms that that allow job seekers and employers to interact. It is however a lot more
difficult for job seekers to find employers while employers have overwhelming applications
even for positions that have not been advertised, underscoring the unemployment situation in
the country.
2.1.3.4 Government Policies to Address Youth Employment
Government is a key player in ensuring that the factors highlighted above are in the right
perspective. Good policies by the government will affect the investment climate in the country
which will affect how well the economy performs. It goes without saying therefore that “bad”
policies may stifle investment thereby reducing opportunities available for employment. A
good education system is also necessary to ensure that the right skills are available in the
labour market from which investors can source for their labour needs. Thus government should
put in place policies that encourage investment while at the same time ensure a well-educated
and skilled citizenry (Awosusi, 2012)
2.1.3.5 Empowerment Initiatives
Youth Empowerment Initiatives include measures that government can take in order to create
an enabling environment for small to medium scale businesses to thrive thereby increasing
opportunities for young people to venture into self-employment – which could indirectly
provide employment to other people. The objective of these initiatives should be to improve the
business environment, open up the economy trade, foster investment and growth, and create
jobs with increased earning power (The Independent Evaluation Group, The World Bank
Group, 2013).

29. 20
2.2 Policy Framework – Youth Unemployment in Zambia.
This section discusses the policy framework for youth unemployment in Zambia as contained
in recently revised 2015 National Youth Policy and the Employment Creation Policies and
Strategies in Zambia focusing on prospects, challenges and future outlook.
2.2.1 Background
The Government of the Republic of Zambia recognises that poverty levels have remained
significantly high despite the economic growth the country has recorded recording over the
years. This is evident in the high unemployment levels among young people that have been
precipitated by among other things;
 Low manufacturing and industrial base.
 Weak forward and backward linkages within the economy (SMEs and MNCs).
 Weak entrepreneurial culture.
 Low levels of economic diversification and productivity.
 Weak education system that doesn't support practical work related skills.
 Lack of investments in areas of high potential for employment generation e.g.
Agriculture.
 Focus on primary/raw products exports due to lack of investments in value addition.
The government also alludes to the lack of a well coordinated approach of addressing the
unemployment problem (Ministry of Information, Broadcasting andLabour, 2012).
It is in the light of the foregoing that the Zambian government developed the National Youth
Policy whose vision is to have “a nation of skilled, enlightened, economically empowered and
patriotic youth”. The policy was developed to provide an enabling environment that promotes
the rights and obligations of the Youth and foster their participation in national development.
It is anticipated that the implementation of the national youth policy will provide a framework
for government to fully engage the youth and stakeholders in a meaningful partnership to
develop appropriate interventions and services for youth empowerment. The policy has been
designed to provide guidance on:

30. 21
i. Strengthening youth abilities to fulfil their potential;
ii. Prevention and reduction of vulnerability in the socio-economic environment;
iii. Promotion and ownership of sustainable initiatives; and
iv. Addressing the changing needs of the youth in their communities and workplaces
(Ministry of Youth and Sport , 2015).
2.2.2 Current Strategies and Initiatives being implemented
Having recognised the high unemployment levels in the country and as a way of translating
policy pronouncements into action, the following, among other initiatives, have been embarked
on:
2.2.2.1 The Citizens Economic Empowerment Fund
The Citizens Economic Empowerment Fund is managed by the Citizens Economic
Empowerment Commission (CEEC). The CEEC is a body corporate that was formed by an Act
of Parliament No. 9 of 2006, with the mandate of promoting broad based and equitable
economic empowerment of citizens that are or have been marginalized or disadvantaged and
whose access to economic resources and development capacity has been constrained due to
various factors such as race, sex, educational background, status and disability. CEEC is thus
the vehicle by which the Government seeks to transform Zambia into a nation where citizens
are playing a key role in economic activities with greater participation of targeted citizens,
citizens influenced companies, citizens empowered companies, and citizens owned companies.
Targeted citizens are Zambians who historically have been either marginalized or
disadvantaged and have no access to economic resources or opportunities; Citizens Influenced
Companies are companies that have allowed between 5% and 25% citizens’ ownership
participation; Citizens Empowered Companies and those companies in which citizens’
ownership participation ranges from 25% to 50%; and Citizens Owned Companies are
companies in which citizens’ ownership participation is above 50% (Citizens Economic
Empowerment Commission, 2016). Thus in the face of high unemployment among young
people with no access to finance, it is expected that young people can seek financial support in
the form of subsidised loans from the commission to start up businesses to support themselves.

31. 22
2.2.2.2 Business Development Support Programmes
These are programmes that have been designed to support vulnerable but viable groupings in
Zambia. They are implemented under various Ministries such as Community Development,
Commerce, Agriculture, Gender, Youth and Sport, Mines, Education, Science and Technology
among others. Of interest to young people are initiatives implemented under the Ministries of
Community Development; and youth and sport that make available subsidised loans and skills
training for young people meeting set criteria for small business start up (Ministry of
Information, Broadcasting andLabour, 2012). Among the programmes targeted at young people
is the youth empowerment fund under which young people access loans for small business start
ups.
2.2.2.3 Zambia National Service Skills Training Programme
The Zambia National Service Youth skills training programme was embarked upon to impart
skills training and livelihood skills to young people. It is envisaged that once trained, young
will be able to start up their own business ventures and support themselves. The programme
has been extended to all the ten provincial capitals in Zambia. Government anticipates to
capture many vulnerable youths to be imparted with life sustaining skills (Minstry of Defence,
2013).
2.2.3 Achievements scored on Policy Framework in Place
Notwithstanding the weaknesses in the current system which include the lack of adequate
information on the problem of youth unemployment and the general lack of a coordinated
approach to deal with the problem holistically, there are number of reasons to be optimistic.
Firstly, the establishment of a framework around youth unemployment has demonstrated
governments’ political will to address the challenge of unemployment and promotion of decent
work and rights at work. Further, establishment of a policy framework will enable a more
systematic approach in handling the unemployment challenge in order to assure sustainability
of outcomes as the future for employment creation lies in the review of the current
Employment and Labour Market Policy. Also key is the development of a well integrated and
coordinated national employment creation strategy whose overarching aim should be to address
promotion of decent jobs in the informal sector and expansion of formal sector employment
(Ministry of Information, Broadcasting andLabour, 2012, ).

32. 23
Secondly, policy pronouncements are being translated into action through the creation of
supporting legislation and institutions to oversee the policy into action. The establishment of
the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission, the implementation of the business
development support and the Zambia National Service Skills Training Programmes also attest
to the fact that policy in being translated into action (Ministry of Information, Broadcasting
andLabour, 2012).
Thirdly, some positive feedback has been recorded especially among established corporate
bodies such as the citizen’s economic empowerment commission that have channels for
feedback from beneficiaries through their official website. From governments ‘perspective, this
has acted as testimony that their pronouncements do not end up on paper but rather translate
into meaningful action that has affected the Zambian citizens, including young people
positively (Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission, 2016).
2.3 Comparative Studies
There is renewed commitment in recent years by Governments in developing countries to
address youth unemployment as a means to intensifying the fight against extreme poverty,
achieving the MDGs, and more importantly, meeting equity and development goals. This has
led to an increasing demand for relevant information on how labour markets operate, especially
in the context of addressing youth unemployment challenges (Amankrah, 2008).
2.3.1. Addressing Youth Unemployment – Lessons from Ghana
Among countries that have performed well with regards to addressing youth unemployment in
Africa is Ghana. Ghana is said to have recognised youth unemployment phenomena as a
development challenge and thus embarked on a comprehensive programme to try and mitigate
the adverse effects of youth unemployment (Amankrah, 2008).
Firstly, the Ghanaian government restructured and renamed the Ministry of Employment and
Social welfare to the Ministry of Man Power Development and Employment which later was
modified to Ministry of Man Power, Youth and Employment in order to give prominence to the
crucial role of employment generation in the nation’s human resource development agenda.
The restructuring was aimed at refocusing policies and programmes to support employment.

33. 24
As a second measure, the Ghanaian government formulated a labour market policy that
introduced Skills Training and Employment Placement (STEP) programme. Prior to the
implementation of this programme, a need for comprehensive data on the characteristics of the
youth population and its unemployed component was recognised. This precipitated the
requirement for registration of unemployed and under employed youth which was embarked on
in 2001. The registration exercise brought to light valuable information including the fact that
230,000 young people were joining the labour force every year. The registration exercise also
made possible disaggregation of data according to gender, location (rural or urban), education
status among many variables to aid decision making and programme design to suit each group.
The STEP programme was fully government funded and was implemented in two phases with
the Micro – Financing component being attached to the programme in the second phase to
support enterprise development for the graduates of the training programmes.
The third measure involved the revision of the education sector reform programmes whose
objective was to increase access and participation in education by the youth. Other Initiatives
were undertaken including the introduction of the national Youth Volunteer Programme by the
Ghana Vocational Services Scheme, the establishment of the youth venture capital fund, the
enactment of the disability bill to address employment needs for young people with disabilities
as well as the enactment of the demand driven law for technical and vocational education.
Notwithstanding these efforts, youth unemployment remains a great problem to the Ghanaian
government due to the ever increasing gap between labour supply and the opportunities for
employment at firm level. Equally disturbing is the increasing phenomena of young people
who live, sleep and work on the street thus deepening the incidence of poverty in Ghana.
Some writers have attributed the failure on the STEP programme along with the youth
empowerment programmes implemented in Ghana to the diminishing quality of education,
particularly in technical subjects like technical drawing, mathematics and science that form a
sound basis for life earning vocations and engineering. Dr. Kwesi Atta Sakyi further cites the
lack of value addition processes in Ghana that has resulted in jobs being exported along with
raw materials to other countries. Ghana like most African countries export raw materials and

34. 25
later import finished products at a great cost to the economy, having provided employment to
other countries (Sakyi, 2015).
Young people are often inexperienced requiring a substantial amount of mentoring and
guidance before they can fully support themselves. Empowerment programmes have however
only focused on the provision on the technical skills and financial support, overlooking maters
of apprenticeship, internship and volunteerism, which may be very cardinal in stabilising
young people before being let loose in the real world of business that is often very complex and
turbulent (Sakyi, 2015).
Also of importance in the review of the STEP programme were:
 Recognition that the prospects for job creation lie in the private sector and thus the need
to provide incentives for the firms to grow and have more capacity to employ.
 The need for institutional measures to ensure sustainability of the job creation efforts –
judged from the alarming attrition rates from beneficiaries of government initiatives.
 The need to meet employer’s expectations that new entrants to the labour market are
properly trained and are ready for work – training providers should respond to the
needs of the employers (Amankrah, 2008).
2.4 Critique of Literature Review
2.4.1 Official definition of Unemployment Vs Realities on the Ground
The official definition as adopted and used in Zambia does not give prominence to the
magnitude of the problem at hand. To refer to someone as having been employed in the
reference period if they allude to having being involved in any work for pay in cash or in-kind,
barter, including in exchange for food and shelter as well as any work that advances the family
well being mean that we begin count people in need as employed. The majority of Zambian
youth today stay with relatives and parents, in one way or the other they help out with house
chores, gardening in the backyards and in rural areas they are usually assigned tasks such as
looking after animals and working if fields to contribution to food production of the family.

35. 26
Our Statistics on employment are flawed, in this regard and refinements should be made if at a
clear picture of the problem is to be seen. Real interventions can only be employed once the
full extent of the problems is known (Mujenja, 2014).
2.4.2 Why Youth Unemployment is High
A number of reasons have been cited with regards to why youth unemployment is very high in
the recent times.
i) The Youth Bulge – a situation a country incurs when the population of young people
below the age of 25 is larger than all the other age groups. Zambia is thus experiencing
the youth bulge with 66% of the population being below 25 years (Central Statistical
Office, 2012). This phenomenon presents a challenge for the government to keep pace
with the creation of employment opportunities for everyone. It can however be argued
that not everyone in the under 25 category is actively seeking employment as the
majority in this age group would still be pursuing the secondary and tertiary education –
and are thus excluded from the unemployment bracket. Also not counted as
unemployed, if the official definition is applied are the “not in education and
employment teens” (NEETs) as these are regarded to have left the labour market by not
being active employment seekers. While the population below 25 years maybe higher
than any other age group in Zambia, those actively seeking work are proportionately
smaller, and this to some extent invalidates the concept of the youth bulge as a major
contributor to youth unemployment.
ii) Urbanisation – fewer opportunities for work in rural areas have cause most young
people leaving schools at various stages in the education system to migrate to urban
areas in search of unemployment, or entrepreneurship opportunities. While this will
increase the numbers of young people in urban areas, it does not necessary cause youth
unemployment to be high. All it does is shift the numbers of unemployed young people
from rural areas to urban areas without any real increase or drop in employment
statistics taken as a national aggregate.
iii) Regulation of the Labour Market – recently the Zambian government revised its
employment act abolishing casualisation of labour. Short contracts were also effectively
abolished for work that is continuous in nature advocating for permanent and
pensionable employment (Ministry of Labour and Social Security, 2015). This has not
sat very well with some employers who benefited from the flexibility of renewable

36. 27
contracts to be able to increase or reduce their workforce as market conditions dictated.
With the introduction of stringent rules surrounding issues of employment, employers
are now very cautious in their engagement patterns, with most opting to outsource non
essential services. While the conventional employers may be averse to employment
arrangements, the whole situation creates business opportunities for players in the
supporting businesses. An outsourcing company for example might have to increase its
workforce to meet the new business demands which in the final analysis results in
improved productivity as organisations focus more of the core activities. This however
will hold true if organisations opt to computerise operations as opposed to out sourcing
as this will result in the loss of direct jobs.
iv) Mismatch of Demand and Supply – the population of Zambia has been increasing since
independence. This would have required that the economy and employment
opportunities grow at the same or even a faster pace to accommodate the growing
population (Opennheimer, Spicer, Trejos, Zille, & Cavallo, 2011). This concept,
coupled with the aspect of the youth bulge above holds true for the employment record
currently being experienced in Zambia.
2.4.3 Determinants of Youth Employment Outcomes –Demand and Supply Concept
The Independent Evaluation Group and the World Bank Group’s analogy of the determinants
of youth employment outcomes make an understanding of who are the players in the whole
business of employment creation. It however assumes traditional market fundamentals of
demand and supply which to some extent is an over simplification of the problem of
employment as it alienates the human aspect associated with it. The application of the
traditional market fundamentals also assumes a free market economy in which the
fundamentals are left to interact and set the rules for trade without much influence or external
regulation. As a starting point, there are no known true free market economies in the world
today and it’s a theory that merely approximates ideal scenarios. Most national governments
still find it necessary to interfere with the operation of the markets for a number of reasons
ranging from protection of local industries, safe guarding employment for local populations or
even promoting local customs.
Thus to the extent that it involves human beings who cannot be approximated to articles in the
market with a “price tag” and also not comparable among themselves, the theory can only be

37. 28
used to understand the factors that are cardinal in stimulating employment creation and it has
been used in this study specifically in that context. The human factors associated with
employment are outside the scope of this study and will therefore be avoided but perhaps to
only mention that there are factors affecting employment beyond the factors of demand and
supply including factors of equity of access which may not be applicable as human beings are
exposed to different opportunities in different environments that they have settled.
2.4.4 Policy and Legislative Inconsistencies
Policy framework serves as a starting point to address any problem in any country. Thus the
Zambian government’s approach in putting in place a policy frame and supporting legislation
to the problem of youth unemployment is laudable. There are a number of issues that have not
been fully addressed in the policies currently available to address youth unemployment in
Zambia and below we look at some of them.
i) The extent of the Problem – while the youth policy articulates it vision and goals, no
baseline study has been conducted to measure the extent of the problem before the
application of any policy pronouncements. The absence of baseline data on the current
or prior unemployment record in the country makes measurement of any progress made
very difficult to an extent that any achievements made are nothing more than
speculation. Further, drawing from the approach used in Ghana which started by a
national registration of the young people and the eventual monitoring through time how
variables were changing should make monitoring of progress much more systematic
while allowing for learning and remedial action where results deviate from what is
expected. These factors have not been addressed in the Zambian Youth Policy.
ii) Targeting and Implementation – due to the non availability of data, the implementation
of the programmes is rather not systematic and is often about who is in the right place at
the right time. With this approach, there is a possibility of the more deserving
beneficiaries being left out as they may not be aware. Implementation of the
government programmes are sometimes done on pilot or trial basis which raises a
question of the criteria used in the absence of comprehensive data.
iii) Apprenticeship and Internship – the youth empowerment programmes that have been
implemented have given prominence to skills transfer and provision of start up capital
without preparing young peoples’ mindsets adequately. Most professional bodies
require practical experience even after qualification in which period the intern works

38. 29
under supervision of an experienced mentor. This is the practice for professions like
Accountants and Medical Doctors and it is done to ensure that the art is properly
mastered and stability in the practice is assured. Beneficiaries of youth empowerment
programmes are trained for a few days and given capital to proceed and set up their
own ventures resulting in the high failure rate.
iv) Value Addition Processes – As noted in the Ghanaian scenario, most exports that are
made from Zambia are in their raw form which entails that Zambia has not positioned
itself to benefit from developing its manufacturing sector to add value to its products
and ensure job creation for the local population. While the national youth policy
indentifies this gap, it has not provided any solutions to this problem and thus no much
result can be expected.
2.4.5 Informal Sector and Formal Systems
The paradigm shift that encourages rural participation through entrepreneurship is a drive that
is meant to strengthen the informal sector. It is however not clear how the informal sector must
work with formal institutions. In rural areas, land use is on “gentleman’s” agreement with no
legal title required. Further, registration requirements are nonexistent with people running
many ventures, including hazardous ones without any form of permit. To support this would
entail that government is supporting illegality. Further, if this sector is to grow, it would require
that financing is sourced from lending institutions such as banks. There lies a problem as these
institutions can only deal with formally established person.
2.5 Chapter Summary
This chapter was aimed at bringing to light the issues surrounding the problem of youth
unemployment in Africa, and Zambia in particular. This review was intended to generate a
holistic picture of the broader problems, and identify the many diverse factors that can lead to
youth being classified as ‘at risk’ of longer term unemployment or marginalization. A review
of the literature also uncovered existing policy and program initiatives employed to combat
youth unemployment in Zambia. This report presents a review of selected Zambian and
international literature on youth unemployment issues and responses. It pinpoints the key
issues and responses already acknowledged in published books and papers, available
government department reports and research documents, and media commentaries.
The information in this section will be used to contextualise the findings of this research and
also provide the forum with a better understanding of the broader issues at play, whilst also

39. 30
informing the development of research that pinpoints the key local issues of concern. The
information from in this chapter will be used to guide our discussions with youth
unemployment in Luangwa District, employers, government, and employment support
initiatives as we seek to understand the issues specific to young people in the district.

40. 31
CHAPTER THREE: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.0 Overview
This section describes the rationale for the application of specific procedures and techniques
used to collect, summarize and analyze information applied to understanding the problem
youth unemployment in Luangwa District in order to allow for critical evaluation of the study’s
overall validity and reliability. This section will provide details on how the data was collected
or generated, and how the data was analyzed (Kallet, 2004).
3.1 Research Design
Qualitative case study research was used to gain an in depth understanding of issues affecting
the employment status of young people in Luangwa District (Stake, 1995). This involved the
study of concepts around youth unemployment, government policies as well as the observation
of activities on the ground in order to assess whether what was documented translated to
realities on the ground. The case study method was chosen because of the complex nature of
the unemployment phenomenon and also due to the limited amount of vital data regarding the
progression of the unemployment problem in the area (Yin, 2003).
In order to perform the study, the following steps were undertaken:
i. A desk review - involving a study of the regional, national and district trends on youth
unemployment and empowerment initiatives – this mainly formed the basis for the
preceding chapters.
ii. Data collection and analysis from intended “beneficiaries”4
, involving the young
people that are faced with the problem of unemployment.
iii. Data collection and analysis from “Goal Holders”5
, involving officials mandated to
deliver initiatives aimed at empowering young people in the district from government,
quasi-government and civil society organisations.
4
“Beneficiary” is used to refer to the young people targeted by the empowerment initiatives in the area of study
– young people aged 15 – 24 years.
5
“Authority or Goal Holder” is used in this study to refer to those people who have been assigned with
responsibilities of ensuring the goals or targets set with regards to youth empowerment initiatives are met.

41. 32
3.2 Data Collection Methods, Techniques and Tools
Data collection methods used included the direct one to one interaction with individuals and
the indirect non interactive technique was used to collect data from respondents, the
communities and secondary data sources as follows:
i. Structured Interviews – structured questionnaires were used to ask the same questions
to the respondents. Due to the uncertain literacy levels among the respondents, the read
out questions to respondents and recorded their responses on the questionnaires. This
was done to ensure uniformity of questions and meaning ascribed to the questions
ii. Observations – this involve the general observation activities and behaviours of young
people that were said to be unemployed directly in the communities and indirectly
through the media reports on issues of unemployment, the effects and consequences
(University of Leicester, 2016).
iii. Desk Study – involving the collection of secondary data relating to policies, concepts
and literature review (Jesson, 2011).
Data collection tools used were mainly questionnaires that formed the basis of the
interviews with the respondents.
3.3 Data Analysis Methods, Techniques and Instruments
The following data analysis methods were used:
i) Transcription and Organisation – data collected through interviews and questionnaires
were transcribed and organised in groups, tables and summaries using manual
techniques of tallying and grouping (2010 Baltimore County Public Schools, 2015).
ii) Graphical techniques, using Excel as a tool from the Microsoft Office suite was used to
come up with charts, graphs and figures.
The holistic perspective analysis method was used to bring together the perspectives from the
different respondents in the study namely the beneficiaries and goal holders. (Berg, 2012)
3.4 Sampling Design
Target population of this study was 593 young people aged 15 – 24 years living in the three (3)
main settlement areas in Luangwa District. Demographic data available (Table 1.1) shows the
population of the target age group as being 5,413 in Luangwa District (Central Statistical

42. 33
Office, 2012). However, this study excludes young people in the age group that are still
attending school, 4820 - Table 1.2 (Nchimunya, 2014) and thus the target population of 593.
A sample size of 60 was draw from the three (3) main settlement areas in the district
representing 10.12 % of the target population.
The sample was draw using non probability sampling methods were used as follows;
i) Quota Sampling – the study area was divided into three (3) main settlement areas from
which the interviewer selected respondents until the quota of 20 was met from each of
the communities (Australian Bureau of Statistics).
ii) Selective (Expert) Sampling – this was used to select the government and civil society
officials as experts. These were target in order to get there expert opinion as well as to
gather their understanding of the extent of youth unemployment in the district (Piotr
Juszczak, 2003).
3.5 Limitations of Study
Statistics used in this study are based on extrapolated figures from the 2010 national census,
demographics on the ground may have changed and extrapolation only accounts for the growth
rate which is a product of birth and death rates. Aspects to do with migration of people to and
from rural areas are not covered and this may render the sample and target populations
unreliable.
Further, this study involved the use of secondary data and documentary review from databases,
review of electronic journals and reports as well as any other literature relevant to the study.
Despite having a lot of literature on youth employment for most parts of the world and for
Zambia as a whole, the Luangwa District scenario is not very well documented and this posed a
challenge to the study.
The collection of primary data from government departments on the impact of its interventions
at district level proved as there were no systematised reporting facilities. Data is mainly stored
in periodic reports with a possibility of data being lost with time
3.6 Ethical Considerations
Information obtained from respondents shall be used for purposes of this research only and
shall be obtained with full consent of the respondent who shall be made aware of the purpose
for which the data is being collected. Further, the information about respondents shall be

43. 34
handled with the strictest confidentiality and will only be kept for as long as is necessary to
complete this research after which all copies of questionnaires shall be destroyed.
3.7 Chapter Summary
This study is aimed at assessing the levels of unemployment among young people in Luangwa
District as well as the effectiveness of the initiatives implemented to redress the problem. The
research has been so designed as to be able respond to the question regarding the extent of
unemployment in the area, the relationships between the education and employment status, the
availability, accessibility and effectiveness of government initiatives as alternatives.
The case for Luangwa District and Zambia in general is not very well documented and thus this
study should provide information on the extent of the problem, uncover any gaps that may exist
in the delivery support programmes currently in place by the government and co-operating
partners. Further, the study has also been designed to critique and challenge the status quo with
regards to the existing policy on youth unemployment and empowerment and as such may
form a basis for even more studies on the topic that should result in more responsive policy and
service delivery to respond directly to the problem.

44. 35
CHAPTER FOUR: DATA PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION
4.0 Data Presentation Overview
The study was conducted to evaluate the extent of youth unemployment and the effectiveness
of the youth empowerment initiatives implemented in Luangwa District to alleviate problem of
youth unemployment. To achieve this data was collected on previous literature and current
policies on youth unemployment using desk review, while stakeholders and the intended
beneficiaries were interviewed in order to assess the extent of unemployment among young
people, what initiative have been implemented in the district and the extent to which young
people have benefited from such initiatives. Information gathered in the desk review will be
used to validate data available with regards to the implementation of government initiatives as
well as validate the earlier literature around youth unemployment. This section will begin by
giving narrative information regarding responses from the goal holders in the district on what is
being done to address youth unemployment in the area. Responses from the beneficiaries
sampled will be presented and analysed in tabular and graphical form before giving an overall
analysis and discussion of the research findings.
4.1 Youth Empowerment Initiatives Implemented in Luangwa District
Interviews conducted with government officials and officials from civil society organisations
revealed the a number of initiatives being implemented in the district to mitigate youth
unemployment as follows;
 Central Government Initiatives – these are targeted at all young people across
the country. In Luangwa District the following have been implemented.
i. Zambia National Service (ZNS) Skills training initiative in which
vulnerable but viable young people are empowered with entrepreneurial
skills such as Carpentry, Tailoring, Brick laying, Auto Mechanics among
other programmes. Information available from Social Welfare
department indicated that 2 groups of 15 from the area have so far
benefited since the inception of the initiative bringing the number to 30
beneficiaries. The beneficiaries are also empowered with equipment
upon graduation in order to help them fully set up after the training.

45. 36
ii. Youth Empowerment Fund (YEF) - is one other initiative that
government has introduced and has been in operation from 2008. Three
(3) youth groups of 10 members from Luangwa District are said to have
benefited since inception. The initiative involves provision of soft loans
to youth groups upon satisfying certain pre-conditionality’s.
Beneficiaries are expected to implement their project proposal, mainly in
income generating ventures and pay back the loan which then becomes a
revolving fund.
 Local Government Initiatives - In a bid to improve young peoples’ prospects of success
in life, the local authority in Luangwa sets aside some funds received for developmental
projects in the District, Constituency Development Fund (CDF) to sponsor Orphans and
Vulnerable Children (OVCs) to Secondary and Tertiary Institution of Learning. In the
2012/2013 fiscal year, the authority sponsored 56 and 18 young people to secondary
schools and institutions of higher learning respectively while in 2014, 41 and 28
respectively were supported.
 Civil Society Organisations (LCDA) - Civil society organisations are also working in
Luangwa District to supplement government efforts in the area of youth empowerment
initiatives, educational programmes aimed at increasing access to schools and making
schools more child friendly, also aimed at improving school attendance. In the area of
youth empowerment, local civil society organisations have also implemented projects
aimed at improving youth livelihood by improving their incomes. One such a project
implemented by Luangwa Child Development Agency, with funding from ChildFund is
the Youth Empowerment Project which benefited 150 young people in the District. The
project involved setting up of banana plantations equipped with irrigation equipment,
provision of start-up capital in the form of seedlings, fertilizers and other inputs as well
as training of the young people in banana production, entrepreneurship and livestock
management.

46. 37
4.2 Youth Unemployment and Empowerment Initiatives –Sampled beneficiaries
Table 4.1 – Summary of Respondents by Gender
Gender Frequency Percentage
Male 29 48
Female 31 52
Total 60 100
Source: Author
The table above shows the total number of respondents by gender, a total of 60 was
interviewed.
Figure 4.1 – Summary of Respondents by Gender
Source:Author
Figure 4.1 is a depiction of respondents in percentages in a pie chart presentation – 60 youth
under consideration.

47. 38
Table 4.2 – Employment Status in Luangwa District
Employment Status Frequency Percentage
In Formal Wage Employment 2 3
Self Employed 15 25
Unemployed 43 72
Total 60 100
Source: Author
The table above shows the employment status of young people interviewed in Luangwa, total
of 60 Interviewed.
Figure 4.2 - Employment Status – Luangwa District
Source: Author
Figure 4.2 shows the employment status by pie chart among the interviewed youth in Luangwa
– 60 youth under consideration

48. 39
Table 4.3 Education Vs Employment Status
Employment Status Vs
Education Attained
Education Status Achieved
Tertiary Grade 12 Grade 9 Grade 7 Totals
Formal Employment 1 1 - - 2
Self Employment - 10 4 1 15
Unemployed - 14 20 9 43
Totals 1 25 24 10 60
Source; Author
The table above shows the impact of education on the employability of youth
Figure 4.3 – Education Vs Employment Status
100
100% 90
83
80%
60% 56
40%
20% 17
Key Formally employed
Self Employed
Unemployed
Figure 4.3 - Education Vs Employment Status
40
10
0 0 0 0
Tertiary Grade 12 Grade 9 Grade 7
Level of Education
Percentages
4
Source: Author
Figure 4.3 is a depiction by bar chart of the relationship between employment status and the
level of education for the sampled 60 youth by percentage.

49. 40
Table 4.4 – Reasons for not attaining the Highest Education Possible
Reason cited for Education Attained Frequency Percentage
Financial Support Limited 35 58
Inadequate School Places 3 5
Own Decision to exit 15 25
Prohibitive Distances 2 4
Pregnancy 5 8
Total 60 100
Source: Author
Table 4.4 shows the distribution of reasons cited by youth for the education levels attained.
Figure 4.4 – Reasons Attributed for Education Status Attained
Source: Author
Figure 4.4 is a depiction by pie chart of the various reasons cited by young people for not
attaining the highest posible education available – 60 youth under consideration

50. 41
Table 4.5 – Accessibility of Youth Empowerment Initiatives
Questions on Accessibility Youth Responses (Yes/No) – Frequencies
Yes No Totals
Awareness of the Support Initiatives 36 24 60
Made Attemts to Access Support 24 36 60
Attempts Successful 14 10 24
Source: Author
Figure 4.5 – Proportion of Youth Aware about the Empowerment Initiatives
Source: Author
Figure 4.5 is the depiction of the proportion of youth interviewed that expressed knowledge
about the empowerment initiatives in the District – 60 youth interviewed.

51. 42
Figure 4.6 – Proportion of Youth That Attempted to Access Support
Source: Author
Figure 4.6 shows by pie chart the proportion of youth interviewed that made an attempt to
access youth empowerment support – 60 youth under consideration.
Figure 4.7 – Proportion of Youth that were Supported among those that Attempted
Source: Author
Figure 4.7 is the shows by pie chart of the proportion of youth who suceeded in accessing
youth empowerment support 24 youth under consideration.

52. 43
Table 4.6 – Success Rate Among Beneficiaries of Youth Empowerment Initiatives
Questions Asked Answer given by Youth & Frequecies
Yes No Totals
Ability to independently meet Basic Needs 12 2 14
Able to Employ at least 1 fellow youth 7 5 12
Have actually Employed atleast 1 Youth 2 5 7
Source: Author
Table 4.6 shows the success rate among those that attempted to get youth support among the 14
applicants.
Fugure 4.8 – Proportion of Youth Supported themselves & Families
Source: Author
Figure 4.8 despicts the proportion of youth able to meet basic needs and support their families
after benefiting youth empowerment initiatives – 14 youth under consideration.

53. 44
Figure 4.9 – Proportion of Youth Supported Confident of being able to Support Other
Youth
Source: Author
Figure 4.9 depicts by pie chart presentation the proportion of youth confident of being able to
support other youth through employment in their business ventures, having received
empowerment themselves – 12 youth under consideration.
Figure 4.10 – Proportion of Youth Supported Employing at least One (1) Person in their
Businesses
Source: Author
Figure 4.10 is a depiction, by pie chart presentation of youth that have succeeded and are
providing employment to other youth, having set up in business themselves – 7 youth under
consideration.

54. 45
Table 4.7 – Youth attitudes towards Self Employment and Entrepreneurship
Questions Asked Answer given by Youth & Frequecies
Yes No Totals
Willing to take up Entreprenuership as viable option
to wage employment
47 13 60
Have started up own businesses 15 32 47
Confident of growing their business 9 6 15
Source: Author
Table 4.7 shows the attitudes towards self employment for the 60 youth interviewed.
Figure 4.11 – Proportion of Youth Willing to take up Entrepreneurship
Source: Author
Figure 4.11 depicts the proportion of youth interviewed that perceive intreprenuership as a
viable option to formal employment – 60 interviewed

55. 46
Figure 4.12 – Proportion of Youth Willing to take up Entrepreneurship & are in Business
Source: Author
Figure 4.12 depicts the proportion of youth that perceive entreprenuership as a viable option
and are already in business, 47 youth under consideration
Figure 4.13 – Proportion of Youth Confident of Expanding Expanding their Businesses in
a Foreseeable Future.
Source: Author
Figure 4.13 depicts by pie chart presentation the proportion of youth in business confident of
expanding their business in the foreseable future – 15 youth under consideration.