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Addressing scores of people gathered for a belated 21st February Movement celebration at Stanley Square in Makokoba on Sunday, Zanu-PF Secretary for Youth Affairs, Cde Absalom Sikhosana, who was the guest of honour, said the youths must fight to safeguard the sovereignty of the nation against globalisation, imperialism, neo-colonialism and illegal sanctions.
“Today some want legalisation of prostitution, homosexuality and western ideology that are contrary to our life. Youths must stand firm and united against such oppression and ideologies that are trying to destabilise our national morals and values.”
Zanu-PF Bulawayo provincial youth chairman Cde Butho Gatsi said the day commemorates the contribution made by President Mugabe who helped liberate the country from colonialism.
“We celebrate the contribution made by the nationalist icons like President Robert Mugabe, late Dr Joshua Nkomo, late Tongogara, to name but a few and I encourage each one of us to emulate them.
“Today, we now have the privilege to enjoy our freedom because of them. Some died during the struggle but still we continue with the struggle,” said Cde Gatsi.
He said President Mugabe did not fight for political independence only but for economic independence as well so that black people could have full ownership of their resources. “It is our mandate to liberate this great country economically by taking full ownership of the country’s resources.
“This comes at a time the nation is indigenising its economy and this encourages youths to participate fully in the economy and empowerment programmes that are being spearheaded by our great visionary President Cde Robert Mugabe.”
He also urged youths to be patient and hopeful that the indigenisation process would be achieved soon and that they must uphold African values and defend the country against cultural imperialism.
Matabeleland South Governor Angeline Masuku and Secretary for Education Dr Sikhanyiso Ndlovu attended the event, as did the party’s secretary for transport in the Youth League, Cde Khumbulani Mlilo.
“The movement is revolutionary and patriotic because we want youths to safeguard our sovereignty against globalisation, imperialism, neo-colonialism and illegal sanctions,” said Cde Sikhosana.
He encouraged youths to register to vote in the next general elections so as to shape their future.
“Our nation is going to hold general elections this year. Since youths constitute a majority of voters, they must go and register to vote since they are the ones who determine the future of this nation,” he said.
Dr Ndlovu said the youths must pursue education and knowledge so as to develop themselves.
“Education is the key to success and to alleviating poverty so I urge youths to get educated so that they have knowledge about what they are doing and develop themselves.
“I call for more training facilities and empowerment programmes that can assist youths in improving their livelihood.
“Youths must assist the Government in revitalising the economy through undertaking developmental projects in their communities,” said Dr Ndlovu.
Online Reporter