Youth Identity and Political Participation in Urban Zambia: An Analytical Exploration

Urban youth in Zambia face significant socio-economic challenges, which may influence their engagement with political processes. The study employed a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews, focusing on 500 respondents from urban areas across Zambia. Urban Zambian youth exhibit varied levels of political identity formation, with certain themes emerging in their narratives about civic participation. For instance, over 60% of participants reported feeling that their sense of belonging to the community strongly influenced their decision-making regarding voting and political activism. The findings suggest that fostering a strong sense of community among urban youth could significantly enhance their political engagement. Policy makers should consider initiatives aimed at strengthening communal ties as part of broader strategies for increasing political participation amongst urban Zambian youth. Urban Youth, Political Participation, Identity Formation, Zambia