Welcoming 50 young delegates from across the nation to the parliamentary chamber yesterday, Speaker of the National Parliament Patterson Oti handed over the floor to a generation ready to claim its seat at the decision-making table.
“Your presence here today demonstrates your commitment to leadership, civic responsibility, and the future development of our nation,” Speaker Oti told the room as he officially opened the 2026 National Youth and Children’s Parliament at the Paul Tovua Complex.
“This year’s theme recognizes that the voice of children and young people matters,” Speaker Oti added.
“You will learn about the foundation of our democratic system and gain a deep appreciation of parliamentary democracy, public policy development, and the delivery of essential services to our people.”
The four-day sitting, running through October 1, brings together young leaders aged 10 to 35 from remote provincial villages to urban hubs.
Marks a key evolution from past youth assemblies held since 2009, this year’s session formally expands to include children while emphasizing gender balance, regional diversity, and the inclusion of persons with disabilities.
Debating under the banner “Our Voices, Our Future: Decentralization of Inclusive and Accessible Social Services for All,” the young parliamentarians are taking on pressing national priorities from climate action and healthcare access to clean water, sanitation, and child protection.
Alongside policy debates, the session serves as a practical leadership intensive in legislative procedure, human rights, and public speaking.
The sitting will conclude on Thursday with a mock parliamentary debate, after which delegates will present formally drafted resolutions to Speaker Oti for submission to national government leadership.
The initiative is hosted by the National Parliament alongside the Ministry of Women, Youth, Children and Family Affairs and the Ministry of Provincial Government and Institutional Strengthening, with support from UNICEF and funding from the European Union.
