President Jacob Zuma said on Tuesday the National Youth Development Agency must empower young people by integrating them into the economy.

The agency was launched during Youth Day celebrations in Katlehong on the East Rand.

As he took to the podium, Zuma treated the audience to a rendition of his trademark song 'Umshini wami'.

Zuma told them his government had heard the voices of young people in distress and those who are unemployed and living in poverty.

The president said the state had a responsibility to create an environment where young people could build a future for themselves.

He said the NYDA would usher in a new era in youth development by implementing the National Youth Policy.

After he spoke, the board members of the newly formed Youth Development Agency was presented to the crowd.

Eyewitness News