Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia, the Right Honourable Ms. Nelly B K Mutti, SC, MP, FAPRA, has launched the Young Learners’ Special Pages and unveiled the Constituency News Corner on Parliament Website on Tuesday, 18th February, 2025, in the Amphitheatre, at Parliament Buildings.
Speaking during the launch, Speaker Mutti said that these online platforms are designed to educate young learners about Parliament and showcasing the developmental projects within Constituencies, particularly those linked to the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).
She said that while Parliament has made progress in increasing public engagement through platforms such as Parliament TV, radio and social media, most of the content has been primarily targeted at adults. She added that providing simplified, interactive and age-appropriate content will bridge the knowledge gap among school learners and develop an early understanding of governance and the legislative process.
"By launching the Special Pages, we aim to raise awareness among young learners about Parliament’s roles and functions, preparing them to engage fully in Zambia’s democratic processes," she said.
Speaker Mutti encouraged parents to support their children in accessing the Special Pages and learning more about governance. She also called on the Office of the Clerk to promote awareness of these new features through Parliament TV and radio to ensure nationwide reach.
"No young learner should be left behind, whether in Lambwe Chomba, Chiengi, or Nswanakuda in Mwinilunga. With Starlink internet connectivity being installed in all 156 Constituency Offices, access to this important information is now within reach for every young Zambian," Speaker Mutti said.
Madam Speaker said in addition to engaging young audiences, the Constituency News Corner will serve as a platform to share updates on developmental projects across the country’s 156 constituencies. She said this feature aligns with the Government’s decentralization agenda by providing real-time information on how public resources, especially CDF allocations, are being utilized to improve communities.
She urged Members of Parliament to actively contribute by ensuring that relevant constituency development information is submitted for publication on the website.
"The Constituency News Corner will not only enhance transparency but also serve as an important tool for keeping citizens informed about progress in their respective constituencies," she said.
Speaker Mutti also expressed her gratitude to the cooperating partners, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Austrian Parliament and the North-South Dialogue of Parliaments, for their financial and technical support in developing the Special Pages.
And UNDP Representative Mr. James Wakiaga commended the National Assembly for its continued efforts to engage with Zambians, particularly young learners. He said that the Special Pages would not only equip the younger generation with the tools needed to understand parliamentary functions but enable them actively participate in democratic processes.