President Emmerson Mnangagwa has reaffirmed the Second Republic’s unwavering commitment to empowering Zimbabwe’s children and youth, declaring that Government will continue investing in education, innovation, skills development and inclusive governance to ensure no child and no community is left behind.
Officially opening the 34th Session of the Junior Parliament of Zimbabwe in Harare on Wednesday, President Mnangagwa commended young parliamentarians for raising practical issues affecting children while assuring them that Government is listening and responding to their concerns.
“You have spoken as young people; we your leaders will consider your views and address your concerns. Well done,” President Mnangagwa said.
Held alongside the belated commemoration of the Day of the African Child under the theme, “Ensuring universal access to water, sanitation and hygiene for every child in Africa,” the event brought together Government officials, legislators, development partners and child representatives from across the country.
The President said the continued hosting of the Junior Parliament over the past 34 years demonstrates Government’s enduring commitment to giving children a voice in national development.
“Thirty-four years of persistently hosting the Junior Parliament is a clear indication of Government’s commitment to nurture the future generation of leaders by involving children and the youth in development and governance matters from an early age. The voices of our children should be heard as we advance all aspects of Vision 2030,” he said.
President Mnangagwa said major strides being undertaken to transform Zimbabwe’s education system through expanded school infrastructure, modernised learning environments and the Heritage-Based Curriculum, which equips learners with practical skills for the modern economy.
“Government is expanding school infrastructure, modernising learning environments and improving access to teaching and educational materials. Greater emphasis is being placed on digital and industrial skills as well as innovation, so that all children are prepared for life beyond examinations in an ever-evolving world,” he said.
The President said the Second Republic is also transforming vocational training centres and youth service institutions into centres of excellence, enabling young Zimbabweans to acquire skills in agriculture, information and communication technologies, manufacturing and construction.
He further underscored Government’s focus on youth economic empowerment through entrepreneurship support, innovation hubs and improved access to finance.
“Youth empowerment policies, entrepreneurship support programmes, incubation initiatives and market linkages are laying the foundation for a resourceful generation of innovators, industrialists and job creators. We are strengthening access to finance… No one and no place will be left behind,” he said.
On the growing challenge of drug and substance abuse, President Mnangagwa said Government had intensified efforts to protect young people through prevention programmes, rehabilitation services and expanded youth-friendly health interventions.
“This is a serious challenge that we must confront together,” he said.
The President also challenged young Zimbabweans to embrace patriotism, discipline and national service, reminding them that the country’s independence was won through the sacrifices of young liberation fighters.
“Love your country, be patriotic at all times and honour the departed heroes and heroines who brought about this freedom,” he said.
Earlier, President Mnangagwa led delegates in observing a minute of silence in honour of former Child Parliamentarian Kimberly Mwanza, whose contribution to youth leadership he described as inspirational.
President called upon members of the Junior Parliament to use their leadership positions responsibly and continue contributing ideas that will help build a prosperous Zimbabwe.
“Your ideas and innovations, as well as willingness to help in the ongoing processes of building our motherland Zimbabwe, are not taken for granted. Your views are valuable and vital for the realisation of a brighter and more prosperous future of our great nation,” he said.