By Godfrey Bonda
Harare – His Excellency, President Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, officially launched the Presidential Youth Empowerment Scheme yesterday.
The launch was held under the theme:
“Under the theme: Fuel the Youth and Ignite the Future.”
President Mnangagwa emphasized that his administration is a listening government committed to delivering on its promises.
“It is my honor to see you all once again. We last met in Bulawayo Province while celebrating National Youth Day,” said the President.
He reiterated that the youth are the future and reaffirmed the Vision 2030 mantra that no one and no place should be left behind.
“Regardless of gender, age, and beliefs,” he added.
The President also referred to the ZANU PF Constitution, Article 25, Section 325 of Section 1, stating:
“To mobilize the youths in participation in the political, social, and cultural affairs of our motherland, Zimbabwe.”
He announced the launch of a US$2 million Presidential Youth Empowerment Fund, aimed at benefiting young people. Each province stands to receive US$200,000.
“I am giving you 72 tractors, 10 combine harvesters, 10 vehicles for provincial youths, and 10 rigs for drilling boreholes,” he added.
Furthermore, the President revealed plans to launch a US$5 million Presidential Youth Mining Equipment Scheme to support young artisanal miners.
“As you distribute these resources, I urge you to uphold a high level of morality and ethical considerations,” he stated.
His Excellency stressed a zero-tolerance policy on corruption.
“The $2 million USD must not be taken as a free handout. These are loans that should be repaid,” he emphasized.
The Youth Empowerment Bank will administer the fund, with each province receiving a $200,000 USD cheque.
Officials and Stakeholders Spoke at the launch.
Special Advisor to the President, Dr. Tungwarara, remarked:
“We no longer call it Tungwarara deals but ED deals.”
Meanwhile, some investors from Dubai pledged $300,000 USD to purchase the President’s signature scarf.
Honorable National Youth Affairs Secretary Cde TinMac Machakaire and Deputy Youth Affairs Secretary Cde Paradza reiterated that youths remain the vanguard of the party and will continue defending the President.
Harare Provincial Youth Chairman Cde Emmanuel Mahachi welcomed the President to Harare, stating that the province received him with open arms.
Also present were youthful Members of Parliament, including Hon. Emily Jesaya from Mashonaland East and Hon. Joshua Sacco from Manicaland province.
Youth-affiliated organizations such as Boyz dzaMudhara, ZICOSU, Persuaders 4ED, and Young Women 4ED also graced the event.
