Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
THE Minister of State for Matabeleland South Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, has encouraged junior parliamentarians to engage closely with their senior counterparts in order to gain leadership skills and knowledge that will prepare them for future roles in national development.
Speaking on Monday during the official handover of Information Communication Technology (ICT) gadgets to junior parliamentarians in Gwanda, Minister Nguluvhe said the initiative formed part of the Government’s broader vision to promote digital inclusion and youth participation in governance.
A total of 22 junior parliamentarians from across Matabeleland South received tablets. These included 12 MPs representing all constituencies in the province, five under the girls’ quota, two junior chiefs and three senators.
“Your roles, in summary, include law-making, representing your communities, and providing financial and policy oversight. To effectively fulfil these responsibilities, you must collaborate with and learn from senior parliamentarians.
“By doing so, you will be equipped with the knowledge necessary to represent your peers effectively and raise high-impact issues during debates. The Junior Parliament was established to ensure that young people contribute meaningfully to national development,” he said.
Minister Nguluvhe noted that the handover of the gadgets fulfilled a commitment made by President Mnangagwa on June 20 and aligns with the National Digital Ambassadors Programme, which aims to equip 1.5 million young Zimbabweans with digital skills by 2030.
He emphasised that technology remains a key driver of innovation, economic growth, and service delivery, and highlighted the importance of collaboration among Government departments in achieving national objectives.
“This is the result of a whole-of-Government approach, where departments work together in areas of shared interest to achieve desired outcomes,” said Minister Nguluvhe.
He added that the provision of ICT gadgets to junior parliamentarians is expected to bridge the digital divide and enhance youth participation in policy-making, innovation and civic engagement.
The Minister also commended the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training for its stewardship of the Junior Parliament programme, which he said nurtures young people to become active participants in governance and development.
He further urged the young leaders to partner with the Government in combating drug and substance abuse in schools, describing it as a growing national concern that threatens the future of the youth.
Upon receiving her tablet, Gwanda North child MP, Mmabatho Mukwena, said the gadgets would enable junior MPs to carry out their duties more effectively.
“With these gadgets, we have been empowered to serve. They will assist us in conducting research and staying informed on issues affecting our communities and the nation at large,” she said.
Insiza North child MP Lindelwa Abu Basutu, added that the tablets would also benefit other students and young people who require access to information.
“We are grateful to President Mnangagwa for responding to our appeal. These gadgets will not only support our work as junior MPs but also aid us in our studies,” she said.
The Junior Parliament of Zimbabwe was established in 1991 to provide young people with a platform to engage in governance, debate national issues, and influence youth-related policies. It operates under the Zimbabwe Youth Council and mirrors the functions of the National Parliament, with young MPs representing constituencies across the country.
The digital empowerment initiative forms part of the Vision 2030 agenda to build an inclusive, knowledge-driven economy.
—@DubeMatutu
