Peter Tanyanyiwa
Herald Reporter
GOVERNMENT has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting youth-led innovation and digital entrepreneurship, with Deputy Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Kiven Mutimbanyoka saying Zimbabwe’s economic transformation will be driven by a technologically empowered generation.
Speaking at the launch of “The Conversation: Digital Roots Tech Podcast” at the ZB Innovation Hub in Harare last Thursday, Deputy Minister Mutimbanyoka said the emergence of young innovators developing digital solutions was evidence of a new Zimbabwe anchored on innovation, industrialisation and inclusivity in line with Vision 2030.
The event brought together young entrepreneurs, technology leaders and innovators who showcased ideas and digital solutions aimed at transforming industries, creating employment opportunities and empowering communities.
Deputy Minister Mutimbanyoka said the launch of the podcast symbolised more than the unveiling of a media platform, but represented the rise of a generation prepared to shape Zimbabwe’s future through technology and innovation.
“What we witnessed today was far greater than the launch of a podcast. It was a powerful reflection of a new Zimbabwe rising, a Zimbabwe driven by innovation, powered by youthful brilliance and anchored in the vision of His Excellency President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa of building an inclusive, modern and industrialised upper-middle-income economy by 2030,” he said.
He said young people had a critical role to play in national development through innovation and entrepreneurship.
“Our youths are demonstrating that they are not waiting for opportunities to be handed to them,” said Deputy Minister Mutimbanyoka.
“They are creating solutions, building businesses and embracing technology to solve real challenges affecting communities and industries.”
He urged aspiring innovators and entrepreneurs to remain focused and confident in their abilities, saying local ideas had the potential to transform the economy.
“To every aspiring Zimbabwean, never underestimate the power of your vision. Your ideas have the potential to shape industries and contribute meaningfully to national development,” he said.
“The future of Zimbabwe will not be imported; it will be built by bold and innovative young people right here at home.”
Deputy Minister Mutimbanyoka said the Government would continue creating an enabling environment for youth and women to actively participate in the digital economy through empowerment initiatives and innovation platforms.
“As Government, we remain fully committed to supporting youth and women empowerment, digital inclusion and entrepreneurship,” he said.
“We will continue creating platforms and opportunities that allow people from all walks of life to fully participate in the modern economy and contribute towards the attainment of Vision 2030.”
He commended organisers of the Digital Roots Tech Podcast for creating a platform that amplifies youth voices and promotes conversations around technology, innovation and entrepreneurship.
The Second Republic has prioritised digital transformation, innovation and industrialisation as key pillars towards attaining upper-middle-income economy status by 2030, with innovation hubs and industrial parks being established at institutions of higher learning across the country.
Online Reporter