Online Reporter
Mukudzei Chingwere-Senior Reporter
Preparations for the 2026 National Youth Day celebrations are now 80 percent complete, setting the stage for a grand event at the Igava Training Centre on February 21.
This was revealed at yesterday’s post-Cabinet media briefing.
This year’s National Youth Day celebrations will run under the theme “Youth Agenda for Transformation”, which aims to empower young people and promote regional development, continuing the tradition of rotating national events among provinces.
The celebrations will not only spotlight the vibrant youth of Zimbabwe, but also mark the establishment of a new, state-of-the-art Vocational and Youth Centre at Igava, named in honour of President Mnangagwa. This centre is expected to play a pivotal role in equipping young people with essential skills and fostering entrepreneurial growth.
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Jenfan Muswere, said the Vocational and Youth Centre at Igava will be named in honour of President Mnangagwa.
“The youth centre will be equipped with modern, state-of-the-art facilities including smart workshops, metal fabrication and digital learning laboratories, innovation and incubation hubs, demonstration farms, mining technical workshops, sports and recreation amenities, residential accommodation and health facilities, among others,” he said.
“It will provide a diverse curriculum and training programmes, which will be supported through public-private partnerships to enhance market relevance and ensure sustainability.
“A total of 30 000 youths from all provinces will be mobilised to participate in the celebrations at Igava.”
Dr Muswere said outcomes expected from the 2026 National Youth Day celebrations include enhancing employment opportunities, empowering young people, and developing skills for youths who are not in education, employment, or training.
The aim is to support youth-owned enterprises and establish a model for youth service and vocational training centres across the country.
Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Minister, Tino Machakaire, promised organisational dexterity for the commemorations.
“Preparations for the commemorations are about 80 percent complete and most of the work has been done. What remains is a little fine-tuning. We promise unforgettable commemorations,” said Minister Machakaire.
