At the invitation of SNV Zambia, in partnership with the NGO WASH Forum, The Youth Platform (TYP) participated in the Learning Event on “Governance of the Water and Food Nexus in the Age of Climate Change,” held on November 13-14 at Taj Pamodzi in Lusaka. This event, part of the EU-funded Water Voices United project, aims to strengthen WASH civil society organizations (CSOs) to improve governance and realize the Human Right to Water and Sanitation in Zambia.

Discussions addressed critical questions such as: How can governance for climate resilience in the water-food nexus be strengthened? What are the financial barriers and opportunities for sustainable investments? How can multi-stakeholder coordination and inclusive governance be advanced? These deliberations highlighted limited private-sector engagement and insufficient public-private partnerships, while also uncovering opportunities—particularly the growing momentum for stakeholder collaboration to leverage the strengths of governments, civil society, and private entities.

TYP emphasized the critical role of adolescents and youth in advancing sustainable solutions. Through its Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development thematic area, TYP empowers young people to actively engage in policy dialogue and decision-making processes that affect environmental sustainability. As a champion for climate change, water, and food security, TYP is committed to fostering inclusive governance, strengthening accountability, and creating opportunities for youth-led initiatives and conversations in WASH.

By collaborating with SNV, the NGO WASH Forum, and other stakeholders, TYP seeks to amplify the voices of young people, ensuring their role is central in shaping Zambia’s WASH and environmental governance frameworks. TYP’s dedication to collaboration and innovation ensures it remains a valued partner in advancing sustainable development while advocating for youth-driven solutions in the WASH sector.