Young people celebrate inclusive gains of Uhuru

YOUNG people say the attainment of independence in 1980 was a turning point in the history of Zimbabwe as it widened the opportunity base with majority rule laying the foundation for inclusive development across the spectrum.

In separate interviews ahead of the 44th independence anniversary on April 18, the youth said the gains of the liberation struggle have been amplified under the Second Republic, which has come up with policies that mainstream young people’s involvement in key decision making processes and development.

Zanu-PF Youth League Bulawayo provincial information and publicity secretary, Cde Addington Mpofu, said the 44th independence celebration was a moment of reflection on milestone achievements.

“The Second Republic has widened youth representation in all spheres of policy making in the country. We are in Parliament, Government and boards of companies and parastatals,” he said.

“Zimbabwe is the best in Southern Africa in terms of representation. We have young ministers and parliamentarians. They are younger than this country and are in key ministries.

“We have young people in council positions and this goes on to show that the achievement we have since the attainment of independence is centred on the youth. In other African countries this is unheard of and we are happy to celebrate 44 years.”

He said Zimbabwe has a high number of youths participating as drivers of the economy and are thriving in both the mining and farming sectors.

“Young people are taking over the business sector and are actively participating in shaping the economy. We say as the youths, Zimbabwe at 44 is a day of celebration, enjoyment and a reflection of the past and future,” said the youthful leader.

Chairman for War Veterans Children in Bulawayo, Cde Gift Muhomba, said independence evokes mixed emotions and feelings.

“The 44th independence celebrations mark a significant impact on the children of war vets. To mention but a few, lest we forget the peace and tranquillity we enjoy today is a result of the sacrifice our forefathers made so that we may be able to enjoy this freedom,” he said.

“Moreover, we should forever embrace the strength and courage they conveyed as they took up arms to liberate the sons of the soil, hence we hold these celebrations with joy, but never must their memories fade from our hearts as their children.”

Nketa House of Assembly representative Cde Albert Mavunga said independence celebrations were a reminder that the country’s freedom came at a price.

“It’s a reminder to all youths of the blood shed by the country’s liberators for us who are called born frees, us the young people who live in a country that is prospering,” he said.

“This country did not come on a silver platter. We should be reminded that a number of people were brave enough to leave their families to fight for the country’s independence. Independence reminds us that we need to build the country as children of the soil. I am happy we are celebrating 44 years of doing so. I am excited and we will be in Manicaland to celebrate the day,” said Cde Mavunga.

A local female entrepreneur,

, said independence gave the girl child a chance to compete with male counterparts.

“Independence for us young entrepreneurs is more than a mark on the calendar, it defines how we think as businesspeople and our day to day activities, and lives it defines our day to day lives,” she said.

“We have financial freedom and flexibility. We have access to markets and equality in the sector. It also gave women and the girl child equal opportunities to their male counterparts.”