Maputo : Mozambique’s National Youth Day celebrations opened this week with a strong message urging young people to take the lead in rebuilding and healing the country. The event, now in its third edition, began with a Mass held on December 3, where church leaders encouraged young people to see themselves not only as the future of Mozambique but as an active force in shaping its present.
Addressing hundreds of young people gathered for the celebration, Archbishop João Carlos Hatoa Nunes of Maputo said that the country needs the creativity, courage and commitment of its youth to confront the challenges facing society. He highlighted issues such as unemployment, social conflict and fragile family structures, saying that young people should not lose hope but instead become a source of unity and compassion.
The theme of this year’s celebration is Hope does not disappoint because the love of God has been poured into our hearts. The Archbishop said the theme is a reminder that hope grows through action and responsibility. He encouraged young Mozambicans to become what he described as pilgrims of hope, committed to making meaningful contributions instead of being passive spectators.
The message to youth also comes during a time of growing national dialogue about their role in the country’s future. In recent months, political leaders and civil society groups have repeatedly called on young people to participate more actively in national transformation.
Mozambique’s President Daniel Chapo also recently appealed to youth to engage in building a united and corruption free nation, emphasizing integrity and active participation in development.
Youth empowerment efforts are also gaining momentum in other sectors. Programs promoting entrepreneurship, especially in urban areas, have expanded, offering young innovators opportunities to develop business ideas and strengthen the local economy.
International partners such as the United Nations Population Fund have also been increasing support for youth focused services including counseling, health access and vocational training.
Church leaders at the youth gathering said these efforts show a growing recognition that young Mozambicans are essential to building a more peaceful and just society. They encouraged participants to respond to challenges with compassion, responsibility and solidarity.
The National Youth Day activities will continue in the coming days with prayer sessions, workshops, cultural events and community outreach. Organizers hope the celebration will help strengthen unity among young people and inspire long term commitment to service and leadership.
As the gathering continues, the message remains clear. Mozambique’s young people are not being asked to wait for change. They are being called to help create it.