The Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts has today reaffirmed its commitment to youth mental health by donating assorted items to Chainama Hills Hospital, in fulfillment of a pledge made during the 2025 National Youth Week commemorations.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts Hon. Elvis Nkandu, MP, described the donation as a strategic gesture aimed at strengthening mental health services in the country, particularly for young people.
“While this donation may appear modest, it represents our Ministry’s deep commitment to mental health as a critical component of youth development and national progress,” Hon. Nkandu said. “This is not just a ceremonial handover; it is a deliberate action to reinforce the work of institutions building a more inclusive, healthy, and resilient Zambia.”
Referencing statistics from the Zambia Statistical Agency (ZamStats), the Minister underscored the growing prevalence of mental illness in the country, noting that it ranks among the top ten most reported health conditions.
He also echoed President Hakainde Hichilema’s recent parliamentary address on national values, in which the Head of State stressed the need to address substance abuse among the youth.
“As government, we recognize that many of our youth face mental health challenges due to high stress, alcohol and substance abuse,” Hon. Nkandu noted. “But despite these barriers, our young people continue to show resilience and brilliance.”
He emphasized that a mentally sound youth population is essential for national development and innovation, and called for greater openness and support for mental health conversations in all spheres of society.
“Our goal is a Zambia where no young person is left behind, where every youth is given the tools, the space, and the support to thrive,” he said.
Meanwhile, acting Senior Medical Superintendent at Chainama Hills Hospital, Dr. Thandiwe Tembo, thanked the Ministry for its support and urged for the gesture to mark the beginning of a long-term partnership.
“We are encouraged by this donation and sincerely hope this becomes an ongoing collaboration that helps us address the growing mental health challenges faced by young people,” said Dr. Tembo.
And former patient-turned-staff member Rabson Banda urged young people not to suffer in silence but to seek help when facing mental health struggles.
The donated items included sugar, sanitary pads, toilet paper, washing powder, hand sanitizer, hand wash, gumboots, chlorine, and other hygiene essentials.