SUNstainable Youth Empowerment
Empowering Communities through Solar Energy and Youth Training.
According to the World Bank, only 28% of the population has access to electricity, with a stark urban-rural divide, exacerbating the impact of energy shortages. The transformative programme at the Lilayi Centre is designed to address youth unemployment, energy shortages, and environmental needs in Zambia.
About the Programme
This initiative provides youth, particularly women, with technical training in solar energy, contributing to sustainable energy access and economic independence. With an emphasis on long-term impact, the project aims to create a thriving community of skilled solar-energy technicians who will play a key role in green energy solutions.
By integrating solar-energy training, gender equality, and community strengthening, the project supports both youth resilience and environmental sustainability. The Lilayi Centre, a hub for learning and innovation, will serve as the foundation for this endeavor, focusing on renewable energy, economic growth, and ecological responsibility.
Contribute Foundation is dedicated to investing in and empowering individuals and organizations committed to making the world a better place. They focus on supporting projects that promote self-sufficiency, education, and environmental protection, aiming to create a positive, lasting impact for future generations.
Objectives of the project
The Contribute Foundations ‘SUstainable Youth Empowerment’ initiative aims to tackle the following objectives:
Economic Resilience
- Train 50 youth (two cohorts) in solar-energy technology and renewable energy solutions.
- Focus on creating 50% female participation.
- Empower youth through technical training and job creation with a 75% employment rate within six months of graduation.
Environmental Resilience
- Enhance the Lilayi Centre with solar panels, waste management, and tree planting initiatives.
- Provide hands-on experience in green energy solutions for youth, reducing CO2 emissions and supporting Zambia’s sustainable development.
Social Resilience
- Strengthen local communities by promoting gender equality and youth empowerment.
- Create an inclusive learning environment with access to postgraduate support, including access to YA’s e-learning platform.
Community Impact
- Contribute to Zambia’s green transition by expanding solar energy access and providing sustainable energy training for the local workforce.
- Support local economies by training youth who will have the skills to run solar workshops and engage in energy-related enterprises.
An urgent need
Zambia faces significant electricity challenges, primarily due to its dependence on hydroelectric power, which is vulnerable to climatic conditions. In 2024, severe droughts caused water levels in Lake Kariba to drop, leading to reduced power generation and widespread blackouts. According to the World Bank, only 28% of the population has access to electricity, with a stark urban-rural divide, exacerbating the impact of energy shortages. This highlights the urgent need for alternative, sustainable energy solutions to ensure reliable and equitable access to electricity across Zambia. This is what Contribute Foundation is addressing through the SUNstainable Youth Empowerment project.
More information about Contribute Foundation here.
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