By Otillia Makomo
HARARE – President Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa has challenged Zimbabwe’s young people to become architects of Africa’s transformation, signalling a growing policy shift that places youth development at the heart of national and continental progress.
Officially opening the 34th Session of the Junior Parliament of Zimbabwe, the President framed youth empowerment not merely as a social responsibility but as a strategic investment in the country’s future. His address aligned Zimbabwe’s development trajectory with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which envisions a united, peaceful, integrated and prosperous continent driven by its own citizens.
The President’s remarks reflect an increasing recognition that Africa’s demographic advantage will only translate into economic growth if young people are equipped with the skills required by modern economies. Zimbabwe, like many African countries, has a youthful population whose participation in innovation, entrepreneurship and governance is viewed as essential to achieving sustainable development.
“For you, our children, we are determined to ensure that you have access to quality education, health, shelter and safe environments, as well as access to skills and training that will make you ready for the world of the future,” said President Mnangagwa.
The emphasis on Information and Communication Technology (ICT), mathematics, science, innovation and engineering highlights Government’s intention to prepare young Zimbabweans for an increasingly technology-driven global economy. These sectors are widely regarded as critical enablers of industrialisation, digital transformation and competitiveness under Vision 2030.
Beyond education, the President underscored the importance of investing in children’s welfare, arguing that quality healthcare, safe communities and access to opportunities are fundamental to nurturing a productive generation capable of driving national development.
His address also reinforced the role of the Junior Parliament as more than a symbolic institution. By exposing young people to parliamentary processes and public leadership, the platform is designed to cultivate civic responsibility, leadership skills and an understanding of democratic governance from an early age.
President Mnangagwa further stressed that nation-building is a shared responsibility rooted in patriotism, unity and national ownership, calling on the country’s young people to actively contribute to Zimbabwe’s development aspirations.
The address signals Government’s broader strategy of positioning youth as active participants in policy implementation and economic transformation, recognising that the attainment of Vision 2030 and the aspirations of Agenda 2063 will depend significantly on the capacity, skills and leadership of the next generation.
