Date Published: January 6, 2025
Background & Rationale:
Malawi is a youthful country, with over 80% of its population under 35 and a median age of 17 (World Bank, 2023). It faces high youth unemployment, limited access to capital, and economic inequalities, leaving many young people trapped in recycled generational poverty. Government revenue policies, taxation structures, and public spending are crucial in determining access to opportunities. However, most young people lack awareness of how fiscal policies affect their future, and many struggle to access financial resources to develop their skills or start businesses.
 
This initiative aligns with Malawi’s Agenda 2063, which envisions a self-reliant, inclusive, and industrialised nation driven by a skilled and entrepreneurial workforce.
 
Drawing from GRADE research on taxation, public finance, and economic development and the global policies affecting children and young people, this project will work on two key aspects:

 

-Raising awareness among young people on how government revenues, taxation, and fiscal policies impact their economic prospects.
-Providing microfinance, financial literacy, and business development support for young entrepreneurs, ensuring sustainable livelihoods.
 
Objectives:
Economic Literacy: Educate young people about government revenue, taxation, and public finance policies and their role in shaping economic opportunities.
Financial Inclusion: Provide young entrepreneurs with access to microfinance, business mentorship, and financial literacy training to help them start or scale their businesses.
Youth-Led Development: Empower young people to advocate for equitable fiscal policies that promote inclusive economic growth.
 Sustainable Impact: Ensure long-term empowerment by equipping youth with budgeting, investment, and responsible financial management skills.
 
Project Components:
Fiscal Justice & Youth Awareness Campaign
Host workshops and interactive forums on taxation, government revenue, and public spending.
Develop youth-friendly materials explaining fiscal policies and their link to economic mobility.
Partner with universities, policymakers, and media outlets to promote financial literacy.
 
Microfinance & Business Development for Young Entrepreneurs
Provide small business grants and interest-free loans for youth-led initiatives.
Offer business incubation support, training, and mentorship from financial experts.
Focus on industries with growth potential, such as agriculture, digital innovation, and social enterprises.
 
Policy Engagement & Advocacy
Organize policy roundtables where youth can engage with government officials.
Develop a “Youth Economic Justice” Policy Brief for advocacy efforts.
Push for tax incentives or funding programs that support young entrepreneurs.
 
Expected Impact:
 Increased financial literacy among young people.
 Growth of youth-led businesses, reducing unemployment and extreme poverty.
 Stronger awareness of fiscal policies and how they affect young people.
 Improved economic justice through inclusive financial policy advocacy.
 
Strategic Partnerships:
University of St Andrews – GRADE & the CRETO Consortium (Policy insights & research support)
Local Financial Institutions & Development Banks (Funding & training)
Government Ministries (Finance, Youth, Economic Planning) (Policy engagement)
“YOU”– Corporate & Philanthropic Partners (Sponsorship & microfinance)
How to Get Involved
Donors & Sponsors: Support youth entrepreneurship by funding this initiative.
Organizations & Corporates: Partner with us for capacity-building and job placements.
Mentors & Trainers: Share your expertise and help shape young entrepreneurs.
Youth Applicants: If you have a struggling business or a creative pursuit, follow us on social media to not miss calls for participation and other important announcements.
For partnership opportunities, donations, or more information, contact:
📩 [email protected] | 📱 +265 881 449 449 or simply message us on LinkedIn or Facebook Messenger