Youth empowerment remains main objective
Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa has assured the youth that his government will implement policies and programs that will address their current and future needs.
Speaking at the annual Robert Mugabe National Youth Day celebrations at Mushagashe Vocational Training Centre in Masvingo on Saturday, Mnangagwa said youth empowerment remains his government’s main objective.
He urged the youth to take advantage of the opportunities presented by the Empowerment Bank and other programs such as the Presidential Heifer Pass On Scheme, Integrated Youth Skills Development and Agriculture Mechanisation Scheme.
He also encouraged the youth to participate in the national development agenda and contribute to the attainment of Vision 2030, which aims to transform Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income economy.
“You are the future leaders of this country. You have the potential to drive innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship. You have the energy, passion and resilience to overcome any challenges that may come your way,” he said.
Government committed to creating conducive environment
He added that his government wnas committed to creating a conducive environment for the youth to thrive and prosper.
“We are investing in education, health, infrastructure, ICT, energy and other sectors that are critical for your empowerment and development. We are also promoting good governance, democracy, human rights, peace and stability in our country,” he said.
He appealed to the youth to shun violence, corruption, drug abuse and other social ills that may derail their progress. He also paid tribute to the late former President Robert Mugabe, whose birthday was declared a national holiday in 2017, for his role in championing the cause of the youth.
“We remember his legacy of fighting for the liberation, independence and sovereignty of our country. We also acknowledge his contribution to the education, empowerment and development of the youth in Zimbabwe and beyond,” he said.
Youth express views and expectations
The event, which was attended by thousands of young people from various provinces, was held under the theme: “Positioning Youth Empowerment and Development Towards Achieving Vision 2030”. The celebrations featured various activities such as music, dance, drama, poetry, sports and exhibitions.
The youth also expressed their views and expectations on various issues affecting them such as employment, education, health, agriculture, mining, tourism and arts.
Some of the youth said they were hopeful that the president’s promises would be fulfilled.
“We are happy that the president has recognized our role and potential as the youth. We hope that he will deliver on his promises and support us in our endeavors. We want to see more opportunities and resources for the youth in all sectors,” said Tafadzwa Moyo, a 23-year-old student.
“We are grateful for the programs and projects that the government has initiated for the youth. We hope that they will be accessible and inclusive for all the youth regardless of their background, gender, location or political affiliation,” said Rumbidzai Chikwanda, a 25-year-old farmer.
“We are optimistic that the government will create a conducive environment for the youth to thrive and prosper. We hope that the government will address the challenges of inflation, currency instability, power cuts, internet connectivity and human rights violations,” said Tinashe Chikomo, a 27-year-old entrepreneur.
The youth also called for more dialogue and engagement between the government and the youth on various issues affecting them.
They also urged the government to respect the constitutional rights of the youth, especially the right to vote, to demonstrate, to express themselves and to access information.
Source: The HeraldÂ
