Online Reporter
Collin Mtatabikwa
Herald Correspondent
THE younger generation must unite in driving national development and elevating Zimbabwe on the global stage, Skills Audit and Development Minister Professor Paul Mavima has said.
Speaking during the Money and Wealth Summit held in Harare yesterday, Prof Mavima said the only barrier to progress was an attitude of hopelessness and criticism.
Zimbabweans, he said, had to move beyond divisive politics concerning national development and instead work together towards common goals.
“Let’s act in unison and say as Zimbabweans, we have now decided that we are going to place our hands on the deck and move this country to where it should be”.
Prof Mavima advocated a shift away from dependency, encouraging citizens to be incentivised for productivity, particularly in key sectors such as agriculture and mining.
“We have to move the family unit away from a dependency syndrome to where we incentivise them for productivity.”
The minister praised the summit for promoting a continental perspective, which could unlock broader markets and enhance competitiveness within Africa.
He highlighted the importance of viewing Zimbabwe as part of the larger African community to take advantage of collaborative opportunities.
On climate change and agricultural sustainability, Prof Mavima underscored the need for effective water harvesting measures. He pointed out that Zimbabwe possessed fertile agricultural land and that programmes for water conservation should be implemented at all levels to ensure sustainable and productive agriculture.
Prof Mavima also lamented the underuse of Zimbabwe’s tourism assets, noting that major attractions like Victoria Falls have not been adequately marketed.
Ms Sharon Landelwa, summit organiser, highlighted the platform’s role in fostering inclusive conversations on development.
“We created the Money and Wealth Summit to bring together policymakers, industry leaders, youth, and corporate stakeholders for the development of our country.”
The event was held under the theme: “Africa is on the rise, entrepreneurship is the goal, creating wealth without borders.”
