Online Reporter
Sunday News Reporter
ZIMBABWE’s Junior Parliament has become a significant force having gone far beyond legislative engagement in combating pressing social issues such as drug and substance abuse, an official has said.
This is because the young parliamentarians are regarded as opinion leaders within their communities and schools, capable of influencing behavioural change among their peers through various projects and advocacy initiatives.
In a statement, the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training director of communication and advocacy Mr Ranson Madzamba says Junior Parliament addresses various social ills affecting young people.
He said Zimbabwe Junior Parliament Session and commemoration of the Day of the African Child are set to be held at the new Parliament building on Wednesday.
The two events are expected to bring together young people, policymakers, development partners, community leaders, civil society organisations and other stakeholders.
“Junior Parliament aims to address a range of issues affecting the youth, offering a space where their voices can be heard and their concerns can influence policy decisions. As one senior member remarked, “Anything for the youths without the youths is not for the youths,” emphasising the importance of youth participation in matters that directly impact their lives,” he said.
Since its establishment in 1991, the Junior Parliament of Zimbabwe has played a vital role in empowering young people across the nation to participate actively in shaping their future. Serving as a replica of the national Parliament, this platform provides a unique avenue for youth involvement in governance, community issues and national development.
This initiative aligns with several national and international frameworks, including Zimbabwe’s Constitution, the National Youth Policy 2020-25, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child.
It enables representatives from all 210 constituencies to share their thoughts, experiences, and ideas with Government officials, fostering a culture of inclusivity and responsiveness.
Mr Madzamba said the platform also invites stakeholders including Government agencies, non-governmental organisations and international partners to reflect on investments in children’s rights and well-being. It presents a crucial opportunity to evaluate progress made and identify the challenges that remain in ensuring young people’s rights are fully realised in Zimbabwe.
He said Junior Parliamentarians are tasked with bringing forward youth concerns, participating in policy development and spearheading community projects aimed at addressing children’s issues. They’re also instrumental in raising awareness, conducting education programmes and establishing clubs that promote leadership and social responsibility.
In the same vein, he said the Significance of the Day of the African Child cannot be over emphasised.
“June 16 holds special significance for Africans, commemorating the brave students of Soweto who, in 1976, lost their lives protesting against racial discrimination and poor education standards. Over 700 children were massacred during the Soweto uprising, symbolising the fight for quality education and equality.
“In Zimbabwe’s history, the sacrifices of young people include the tragic loss of over 6,000 women and children at Chimoio in 1977 and 1,028 lives at Nyadzonia in 1976. These young heroes and heroines fought tirelessly for a free, democratic Zimbabwe where liberty, fraternity and equality prevail. The Day of the African Child honours their memory and calls for ongoing commitment to address the challenges facing children across the continent,” he said.
The Day of the African Child seeks to advocate and lobby for children and young people’s rights, promote child-friendly budgeting and resource allocation and to also enhance leadership skills among children and young people.
Mr Madzamba said as Zimbabwe continues to nurture its young leaders through platforms like the Junior Parliament, the nation reaffirms its dedication to creating a supportive environment where youth can thrive, participate and lead.
The also day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made and the vital importance of safeguarding the rights and futures of Africa’s children.
