Online Reporter
Joseph Madzimure-Zimpapers Politics Hub
EVERYTHING is in place for the official opening of the 33rd Junior Parliament of Zimbabwe today in Mt Hampden.
The proceedings will include a keynote address from President Mnangagwa.
The event will include various activities such as processions of child judges, junior Parliament procession into the Parliament, reading of Proclamation in the Parliament and Procession of the Child president
Newly-elected Child president, Lionel Mazarire, a Lower Six pupil from Chinhoyi Technical High School, will succeed Pious Nleya of Mzilikazi High School and deliver his maiden speech.
The opening coincides with the International Day of the African Child, celebrated annually on June 16 since 1991.
This day commemorates the brave uprising of schoolchildren in Soweto, South Africa, in 1976, advocating for better education under the Apartheid regime.
This year’s theme, “Planning and budgeting for children’s rights: Progress since 2010,” is in tandem with Zimbabwe’s urgent focus on ensuring no child is left behind.
Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Minister Tino Machakaire, provided an update on the state of preparedness for the opening of the session, stressing the importance of equipping young people to contribute positively to their futures and the nation.
“This is a replica of our Parliament, and their voices and wishes will be taken into account in the operations of the Government,” he said.
The Junior Parliament serves as a leadership development platform, allowing representatives from all provinces to engage in the governance of Zimbabwe.
Since the advent of the Second Republic, notable legislative reforms have been introduced to enhance child rights, including the Marriages Act of 2022, which criminalises child marriage, and the Education Amendment Act of 2020, ensuring free basic education and protection for pregnant girls.
Additionally, the Basic Education Assistance Module (BEAM) now benefits over 1.5 million schoolchildren.
Bongani Ndlovu