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Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri praises President Mnangagwa’s vision for youth development

Online Reporter

DEFENCE and War Veterans Affairs Minister, Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri has expressed gratitude to President Mnangagwa for his astute leadership in ensuring the successful hosting of National Youth Day commemorations in Bulawayo.
She was speaking while delivering the closing remarks at the event that was held at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre.
In her address, Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri commended President Mnangagwa’s unwavering commitment to the growth and empowerment of young people.
“President Mnangagwa remains committed to the growth and empowerment of young people. His presence at today’s event proves that he has the youth at heart,” she said.

She lauded both the day’s theme, “Empower Youth, Secure the Future,” and the President’s speech, stressing their significance as a call to action for building a future inspired by digital innovation.
Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri emphasized the importance of preparing for a world where Artificial Intelligence and technology are integral to modern societies.
“The theme and President Mnangagwa’s speech remind us of the need to plan for a digital-inspired future where Artificial Intelligence is part of modern societies,” she said.
The Minister also highlighted the ongoing fight against drug and substance abuse, describing it as a critical issue that must be tackled to protect the country’s youth and secure their future.

UPDATE

President launches National Youth Digital Skills Programme”

 

Nqobile Bhebhe

PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has launched an ambitious life changing youth digital skills programme in Bulawayo.
The launch coincided with the National Youth Day celebrations at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre.

Zimbabwe digital skills training programme seek to empower 1.5milliin youths with digitals skills countrywide
President Mnangagwa said the initiative will enhance digital literacy and skills among Zimbabwean citizens and empower a new generation of professionals who can contribute to technological innovation

UPDATE

Bulawayo omuhle: President Mnangagwa commends province for successful Youth Day Celebrations

Online Reporter

PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has applauded Bulawayo province for successfully organising and hosting the National Youth Day celebrations.
“I would like to commend Bulawayo for successfully organising the event. Well done Bulawayo, Bulawayo omuhle.”
The Head of State and Government was addressing thousands of youths from across the country’s 10 provinces who packed the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre in Bulawayo for the celebrations running under the theme, “Empower Youth: Secure the Future.”

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President Mnangagwa urges youth to protect hard-won freedom and nation’s unity

Online Reporter

PRESIDENT Mnangagwa, on Friday, implored the youth to cherish unity, peace and solidarity, saying they should jealously guard the hard-won independence.

He stated that solidarity and peaceful existence should be felt throughout the region.

The Head of State and Government was addressing thousands of youths from across the country’s 10 provinces, who packed the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre in Bulawayo for the celebrations running under the theme, “Empower Youth: Secure the Future.”

President Mnangagwa, who is the Chairman of SADC, said the youth, including those from the region, should constantly share knowledge with each other.

“None but yourself has that responsibility of maintaining peaceful co-existence.

“We, the older generation, played our part in bringing about liberation and freedom, which you now enjoy.

“Continue to ensure that your zeal and energy are accomplished,” he said.

He urged the youth to stay firm and resolute in defence of the country and its leadership.

“We are one, Sibanye. Well done, our youths, long live ukubambana kwenu.”

He urged the youth to resist elements who want to divide the country.

He applauded the electric atmosphere at the celebrations, which he said is a “result of our characterised and sovereign country.”

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Youths must unite to secure Zimbabwe’s future, says President Mnangagwa

Nqobile Bhebhe

PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has implored the youth to cherish unity, peace and solidarity saying they should jealously guard the hard-won independence.
He said the solidarity and peaceful existence should be felt throughout the region.

The Head of State and Government was addressing thousands of youths from across the country’s 10 provinces who packed the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre in Bulawayo for the celebrations running under the theme; “Empower Youth: Secure the Future.”
President Mnangagwa who is the chairman of SADC said the youth including those from the region should constantly share knowledge from each other.

“None but yourself has that responsibility of maintaining peaceful co-existence. We the older generation played our part in bringing about liberation and freedom which you now enjoy.
“Continue to ensure that your zeal and energy are accomplished,” he said.
He urged the youth to stay firm and resolute in defense of the country and its leadership.
“We are one, sibanye. Well done our youths, long live ukubambana kwenu.”
He urged the youth to resist elements who want to divide the country.
He applauded the electric atmosphere at the celebrations which he said is a “result of our character and sovereign country.”
Ends

UPDATE

VP Chiwenga praises government initiatives to equip youths with essential skills

Online Reporter

VICE President Constantino Chiwenga has highlighted the importance of the National Youth Day and its alignment with President Mnangagwa’s vision for Zimbabwe’s development.
The Vice President made these remarks while introducing and welcoming the President who is the guest of honour at the National Youth Day commemorations being held in Bulawayo.
“The theme for this year’s commemorations resonates well with President Mnangagwa’s vision,” he said, emphasizing the alignment of the celebrations with the nation’s broader developmental goals.
The Vice President commended the efforts of the Second Republic, led by President Mnangagwa, in empowering the youth.
He noted that the Government has initiated numerous projects specifically designed to equip young people with essential skills and opportunities through tailor-made programs.
“The Second Republic has initiated many projects deliberately meant to empower youths through skills development and tailored programs,” VP Chiwenga said.

UPDATE

Minister Machakaire highlights youth empowerment initiatives at National Youth Day

Online Reporter

YOUTH Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Minister Tino Machakaire has underscored the importance of empowering young people for national development.
He said this while giving his remarks at the National Youth Day commemorations in Bulawayo.
Minister Machakaire reflected on the day’s significance, noting that National Youth Day was first proclaimed and instituted in 2017 to honour the contributions of Zimbabwe’s youth to the country’s development.
“The theme for the year resonates with national development strategies that are youth-centric,” he said, emphasising the critical role young people play in achieving Zimbabwe’s economic and social goals.
The Minister announced that the Government would soon launch digital skills training programs, highlighting the importance of digital literacy in driving economic growth and addressing modern challenges.
He also commended President Mnangagwa for establishing youth focal desks in Government, which have strengthened youth participation in governance and decision-making processes. Minister Machakaire praised the Youth Empowerment Bank as a game changer in providing financial support to young entrepreneurs.
Additionally, he commended the Government for empowering young people through the Presidential Scholarship Programme, which has provided educational opportunities to many.

UPDATE

Bulawayo Minister welcomes delegates to National Youth Day celebrations

Online Reporter

Bulawayo’s Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Judith Ncube, has officially welcomed delegates attending the national youth day celebrations in the city, expressing pride in hosting the event.
Speaking during the commemorations, Minister Ncube extended a warm welcome to President Mnangagwa and other dignitaries present at the occasion.
“The city is proud to host the president and all other dignitaries that are in attendance,” she said.
She also highlighted the significance of the National Youth Day commemorations, which serve as a unifying platform for young people from across the country.
“The National Youth Day commemorations bring together all the youths from every corner of the country,” said Minister Ncube.
The event, held in Bulawayo, celebrates the contributions of youth to national development and focuses on empowering young people to play a vital role in shaping Zimbabwe’s future.

UPDATE

Youths go wild as President Mnangagwa arrives at National Youth Day Event

 

Nqobile Bhebhe

President Mnangagwa has arrived at the main national youth day celebrations at Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre in Bulawayo to a thunderous applause from the youth.
As President Mnangagwa entered Hall 4 shortly before 1 pm with his entourage beamed on giant screen, the auditorium went wild in delirium cheering.
President Mnangagwa waved back to the ecstatic crowd.
Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga and his wife Miniyothabo- Baloyi Chiwenga are also in attendance.
Thousands of youths from across the country’s 10 provinces have packed the Zimbabwe international exhibition centre in Bulawayo for the celebrations running under the theme, “Empower Youth: Secure the Future.”
The jubilant crowd has been kept entertained by various musical groups.
The arrival of the presidium marks the official start of the celebrations.

UPDATE

Zimbabwe’s future looks bright: President Mnangagwa praises youthful innovation

Online Reporter

President Mnangagwa has lauded young people for the innovative ideas they have been coming up with, saying this key is for the country’s future development
The President was speaking soon after touring exhibitors’ stand in Hall Three at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre before gracing the main National Youth Day commemorations in Hall Four.
“I am so happy with the enthusiasm especially in the academia I see we are so happy what is happening in the country, which means the future of the country is bright,” said President Mnangagwa
A total of 162 cubicles were availed and all of them were taken by various institutions which include schools, tertiary institutions, Government Ministries Departments and Agencies.
The innovative exhibits are a culmination of the Heritage Based Curriculum and Education 5.0 which the Second Republic introduced.

UPDATE

President Mnangagwa has started touring exhibition stands at the on going National Youth Day celebrations at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre

UPDATE

Tadiwanashe Marara of Murehwa High school Mashonaland East speaks on the importance of the National Youth Day with particular focus on drugs and substance abuse.

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Students from Mpopoma High School singing in Hall 3 at the ZITF.

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ZANU PF Bulawayo Province Youth League Chairperson Freedom Murechu speaks about the Empowerment programs being rolled out by the Second Republic toward the emancipating youths

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ZANU PF Harare Province Youth League Chairperson Emmanuel Mahachi

 

UPDATE

National Youth Day: Insimbi zeZhwane leader challenges youths to seize opportunities

Nqobile Bhebhe

Meluleki “Brema” Moyo, leader and bassist of Insimbi ZeZhwane has encouraged the youth to take advantage of numerous empowerment opportunities available in Zimbabwe.

He spoke after a steller performance by the dynamic group which kept thousands of people predominantly the youth dancing to the popular track popularity known as “Jeremiah”.

He said he could not miss the celebrations and had to travel overnight from South Africa ‘carrying my lead guitar’.

Thousands of youths from across the country’s 10 provinces have packed the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre in Bulawayo for the celebrations running under the theme, “Empower Youth: Secure the Future.”

UPDATE

Mr Tawanda Nyambuya explains how extracted from different plants is turned into cosmetic oils

 

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Mr Benson Manjengwa a UZ graduate explains how the Pyrolysis plant convents plastic into fuels

UPDATE

ZANU PF Bulawayo Youth Secretary for education, research and Ideology Godknows Mdhari speaks on the importance of the National Youth Day as well as some of the empowerment initiatives availed by the Second Republic to emancipate youths.

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Some of the ministers touring exhibitions

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Youth Service in Zimbabwe: A tool for empowerment

Today’s National Youth Day celebrations are also being used as a platform to promote the recently reintroduced Youth Service in Zimbabwe (YSZ), a key initiative aimed at youth empowerment.
But what exactly is the YSZ, and why is it important?
Understanding the Youth Service in Zimbabwe (YSZ)
The YSZ, launched in May last year, is a Government-led initiative designed to nurture young people into responsible, patriotic, resilient, resourceful and productive citizens.
It also aims to instill a strong national identity and respect for Zimbabwe’s core values.
The programme was re-established after the discontinuation of the previous National Youth Service in 2019.
What is national youth service?
National youth service programmes vary by country.
Generally, these government-run initiatives engage young people, often within a specific age range.
They typically involve vocational or life skills training to prepare participants for future careers.
Additionally, they often seek to instill a sense of patriotism and civic duty, encouraging young people to contribute to national progress.
Military training may be a component in some programmes, but it is not universally included.
Participants often engage in community development projects as well.
National youth service programmes can be voluntary or mandatory, depending on the country’s policy.
In July 2023, the Government approved the national youth service policy framework and implementation matrix, outlining the programme’s structure and operation.
This policy, informed by various national and regional documents, seeks to cultivate disciplined young people with strong Zimbabwean values and identity by 2030.
The programme emphasises six core principles — patriotism, discipline, Ubuntu (humanity towards others), tolerance, respect and integrity.
Participation in the youth service training programme is voluntary.
Training opportunities are advertised through the media and there are two intakes per year, each lasting six months.
Currently, training centres exist in six provinces, with plans to expand into the remaining four.
The existing centres are undergoing refurbishment, and land has been secured for construction in the new locations.
The Government’s goal is to establish 15 new training centres within the next five years, ultimately aiming to train a total of 100 000 youths.

UPDATE

Youths showcase talent at National Youth Day

Sikhumbuzo Moyo

PRESIDENT Mnangagwa will today tour the exhibitors’ stand in Hall Three at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre before gracing the main National Youth Day commemorations in Hall Four.
A total of 162 cubicles were availed and all of them were taken by various institutions which include schools, tertiary institutions, Government Ministries Departments and Agencies.
The innovative exhibits are a culmination of the Heritage Based Curriculum and Education 5.0 which the Second Republic introduced.
The Heritage-Based 5.0 Curriculum is viewed as an innovative educational framework that integrates Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage with cutting-edge technologies and interdisciplinary approaches. It focuses on five key pillars: culture, innovation, education, economy, and sustainability, which collectively aim to equip students with the necessary skills and values to contribute meaningfully to society.
Education 5.0 is a higher education philosophy in Zimbabwe that focuses on innovation, industrialization, and using local resources to improve society. It was introduced in 2020

UPDATE

National Youth Day commemorations oversubscribed

Online Reporter

THOUSANDS of youths have thronged the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre as Bulawayo host the National Youth Day.
While the main event is being held in Hall 4, the venue is no longer taking in any more delegates as the hall is now full, organisers of the event have started admitting youths in Hall 5.
The event was initially supposed to be held at Barbourfields Stadium but after considering that possibility of heavy rains, it was shifted to ZIEC.
This year’s National Youth Day is running under the theme: Empower the Youth, Secure the Future.
President Mnangagwa will deliver the key speech which is expected to unpack Government’s programming for youth people.

 

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Zimpaper Senior Reporter Sikhumbuzo Moyo giving a rundown of National Youth Day Celebrations in Bulawayo

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Understanding the significance of National Youth Day

So, what are today’s commemorations all about?

National Youth Day was proclaimed a public holiday in 2017 to recognise and celebrate the contributions of young people to Zimbabwe’s development.

Beyond celebration, the day serves as a platform to raise awareness and accelerate efforts toward youth empowerment and development.

According to acting director for communication and advocacy in the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, Mr Ranson Madzamba, this year’s commemorations have five broad objectives.

Writing for The Sunday Mail, he said: “The objectives of the 2025 National Youth Day celebrations are to:

• Celebrate National Youth Day 2025.• Promote the Youth Service in Zimbabwe;
• Launch the Youth Digital Skills Programme;
• Promote youth empowerment and development; and
• Lobby for increased investment in youth empowerment.”

UPDATE

 

Invest in youth to build the nation: Minister Machakaire

Briefing Zimpapers about the significance of today’s commemorations, Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, Tino Machakaire emphasised the importance of providing young people with platforms to exchange innovative and entrepreneurial ideas that enhance their skills and knowledge, ultimately contributing to national development.

“Our youths are the future leaders of this nation,” he said.
“It is essential to empower them through quality education and entrepreneurial skills to shape their futures and improve their livelihoods.”

He highlighted the Government’s commitment to promoting youth-led projects by facilitating technology transfer and fostering connections between technology suppliers, financial institutions, and young innovators.

Addressing concerns over the rising cases of drug and substance abuse, the Minister reiterated the Government’s determination to tackle this crisis.

“We are committed to launching projects that actively engage young people, giving them meaningful opportunities to occupy their time and stay away from drugs and substance abuse,” he said.

He also assured that law enforcement agencies would continue their efforts to combat drug abuse, while the Government remains focused on empowering youths with life-changing opportunities.

See the full story here: 

UPDATE

 

Nqobile Bhebhe, Senior Reporter 

Thousands of jubilant youths have descended at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre in Bulawayo for the National Youth Day commemorations.

President Mnangagwa is expected headline the event.

This will be the first interaction between the Head of State and youths this year.

Last year, National Youth Day celebrations were held at Mushagashe Vocational Training Centre in Masvingo Province.

At least 20 000 youths from across the country’s 10 provinces are expected to attend the event which will run under the theme, “Empower Youth: Secure the Future.”

The event is inclusive and open to all, regardless of political affiliation.

Under the Second Republic, National Youth Day was officially declared a public holiday, ensuring that celebrations are accessible to all Zimbabweans.

The day also coincides with the birthday of the late former President Robert Mugabe.

The celebrations are a testament to the Government’s commitment to investing in this vibrant demographic group.