Online Reporter
Online Reporter
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa will preside over the official opening of the 34th Junior Parliament Session on July 8 at new Parliament Building, as Government moves to strengthen youth participation in national development and democratic processes.
Addressing Tuesday’s post-Cabinet media briefing, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Zhemu Soda said this year’s session will run under the Day of the African Child-inspired theme: “Ensuring universal access to water, sanitation, and hygiene for every child in Africa.”
“Cabinet advises that the official opening of the 34th Junior Parliament will be presided over by His Excellency President Dr ED Mnangagwa on July 8, 2026, at the Parliament of Zimbabwe,” he said.
The Junior Parliament mirrors the structure of the Parliament of Zimbabwe and serves as a platform for promoting and protecting the rights of children and young people while nurturing leadership, civic responsibility and democratic values.
It also seeks to facilitate meaningful youth participation across various sectors of national development and provide practical civic education on the operations of the Executive, Legislature and Judiciary.
Dr Soda said elections for the 34th Junior Parliament were successfully conducted in all constituencies on June 12, 2026, with preparations for the official opening now at an advanced stage.
“The Junior Parliament elections were conducted in all constituencies on 12th June 2026 and rehearsals are currently underway,” he said.
“Going forward, Government will continue to strengthen and expand the programme as a strategic national platform for youth development, empowerment and participation.”
The Junior Parliament initiative is designed to give young Zimbabweans an opportunity to engage with governance processes, debate issues affecting children and contribute ideas that can inform national development policies and programmes.
