Youth SDG Summit
The SDG Summit 2026
- 4th - 5th Dec
- Lusaka, Zambia.
About this Summit
In November 2026, the Youth SDG Summit will convene in Zambia, bringing together young leaders, institutions, and partners committed to advancing sustainable development through youth-led action. Taking place at a critical moment where challenges in health, climate, and civic participation intersect, the Summit will spotlight the role of young people in shaping practical, scalable solutions for the country’s future.
As one of Zambia’s fastest-growing youth platforms, the Summit builds on a strong track record of impact, having engaged over 5,000 young people and partnered with key stakeholders across sectors. It continues to evolve from a dialogue space into a delivery platform where ideas are refined, partnerships are formed, and action is prioritised.
With its focus on innovation, mentorship, and implementation, the 2026 Summit will create an enabling environment for young people to move beyond conversation and take ownership of sustainable change, positioning Zambia’s youth as drivers of national and global development.
What will shape the agenda for the 2026 Youth SDG Summit?
Each year, we ask young leaders in Zambia to build the agenda for our Summit through our Consultation Process. This year, 100+ voices from 10 provinces shared their priorities, concerns, and ambitions.
What will shape the agenda for the 2026 Youth SDG Summit?
Each year, we ask young leaders in Zambia to build the agenda for our Summit through our Consultation Process. This year, 100+ voices from 10 provinces shared their priorities, concerns, and ambitions.
Main Theme
Our Health! Our Planet! Our Future! Youth-Driven Solutions for a Sustainable Tomorrow.
Plenary Challenges
01
Mental Health
Question: How do we build affordable, accessible, and stigma-free mental health systems for young people in Zambia?
02
Climate Action
Question: How can young people lead WASH solutions to strengthen climate resilience and protect community health?
03
Civic Participation
Question: How can policy processes meaningfully include young people in shaping decisions that affect their health, climate, and futures?
Speakers joining us in 2026
Mpeza Mbewe
Prof Mamokgheti Phakeng
Dr. Jane Mwamba Mumba
Barbara Nöst
Sharon Wekwete
Highlights from our Previous Summits
Since its inception in 2021, the Youth SDG Summit has grown into one of Zambia’s leading platforms for youth engagement on sustainable development, reaching over 5,000 young people and expanding consistently year on year.
What began as a virtual convening has evolved into a national platform driving capacity building, partnerships, and measurable impact
This consistent growth, with attendance increasing by over 100% year on year, demonstrates the Summit’s expanding relevance and its ability to convene, equip, and activate young people at scale.
2021
2022
2023
2024
Volunteer at the Youth SDG Summit
