Online Reporter
Conrad Mupesa
Mashonaland West Bureau
NEWLY ELECTED Child president Lionel Mazarire has pledged to support the Government’s efforts in the fight against drug and substance abuse as well as the eradication of child marriages, two of the most pressing issues affecting Zimbabwean children today.
Mazarire, a Lower Sixth pupil at Chinhoyi Technical High School, last week became the 33rd national Child president and the second to emerge from Mashonaland West Province.
He was elected for the 2025–2026 term following a tightly contested Junior Parliament election held in Harare last Monday.
Following his election, Mazarire paid a courtesy call on the Minister of State for Mashonaland West Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Marian Chombo, at her offices in Chinhoyi on Tuesday.
He was accompanied by the Junior Minister of State for Mashonaland West, Takudzwa Majoni, and the Mayoress of Chinhoyi, Patience Maraidze. Minister Chombo congratulated Mazarire, describing his election as a victory not only for him but for the entire province.
“This remarkable achievement is a testament to your exceptional leadership skills, unwavering dedication and unrelenting passion for making a meaningful difference in the lives of others,” said Minister Chombo.
“As a province, we are beaming with pride to see one of our young talents rise to this esteemed position. Your election is a shining reflection of the immense potential and promise that our province holds.”
Minister Chombo urged Mazarire to use his platform to address critical issues affecting children, including drug and substance abuse, early marriages and school dropouts.
“Your success is not only a personal triumph but also a testament to the hard work and commitment of your family, teachers and mentors who have supported you,” she added. “I do not doubt that you will make a lasting impact and bring pride to our great province, inspiring others to follow in your footsteps.”
In response, Mazarire said he was honoured to serve as Zimbabwe’s junior president and committed to making a tangible impact, particularly in his home province.
“I am elated to be Zimbabwe’s Child president and hailing from Mashonaland West, I will do my best to ensure the province wins the fight against the scourge of drug abuse and child marriages,” he said.
He added that he plans to present his vision to President Mnangagwa, with a strong focus on school-based campaigns targeting drug prevention and child protection.
“Child rights should not just be words written in ink on paper. They must be realised.
“We will push for proper budgeting and planning for child rights, and I will ensure that this remains a key priority,” said Mazarire.
