President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa
By Brenda Mazhambe
President Mnangagwa today launched the National Youth Empowerment Strategy, calling on young people to take the lead in shaping Zimbabwe’s economic transformation through innovation, entrepreneurship and skills development.
The President made the remarks while officiating at the National Youth Empowerment Symposium, which ran for two days at the Harare Agricultural Showgrounds under the theme “Empower the Youth, Secure the Future.”
The event brought together hundreds of young people from across the country, alongside youth organisations, development partners, Government ministries, the private sector and members of the diplomatic corps.
It featured exhibitions showcasing youth innovation in agriculture, technology, arts and manufacturing.
Outstanding young people were recognised for excellence in business, innovation, leadership and community service during an awards ceremony that formed part of the symposium.
President Mnangagwa said the Second Republic continues to place the youth at the heart of the country’s modernisation and industrialisation drive.
“The Second Republic continues to recognise the youth as the future of our country and the driving force of our ongoing development agenda,” he said. “Your fresh perspectives, innovative ideas and boundless energy are indeed critical ingredients to propel our nation forward.”
The Head of State and Government said the newly launched National Youth Empowerment Strategy is anchored on five pillars — economic empowerment, technology and digital transformation, education and skills development, health and well-being, and governance — reinforced by cross-cutting themes of gender equality and climate change.
“The aim of this Strategy is to create and promote inclusive policies and programmes that enable young people to contribute to Zimbabwe’s social, political, and economic growth. It provides timely guidance on how Government and partners can facilitate young people to access appropriate education, skills training, decent work and entrepreneurship opportunities,” he said.
He challenged the youth to embrace digital technologies and position themselves at the forefront of national innovation.
“We are now living in a digital era where digital skills are no longer optional but are the new literacy,” he said. “I call upon the youth to be at the forefront of this transformation.”
President Mnangagwa directed the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training to fully integrate digital skills training into all its institutions and programmes, and urged financial institutions to develop tailor-made products for young entrepreneurs.
“The task to realise our country’s overall economic growth and Vision 2030 is everyone’s duty,” the President said.
He commended the Ministry for recognising outstanding youths through awards, encouraging the creation of modern, well-equipped workspaces for young entrepreneurs in every province.
“Today is not a mere talk show; it is a demonstration of our commitment to the young people of this great country,” he said. “Go forth boldly, with passion and creativity, as proud Zimbabwean and African youths. Never shy away from your duty to help build the Zimbabwe we all want.”
