Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
FORTY youth-focused community-based organisations from six provinces have been empowered with critical advocacy and governance skills aimed at strengthening their role in national development.
The training, conducted by SAYWHAT in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, targeted marginalised communities and focused on enhancing youth leaders’ capacity to engage decision-makers, demand accountability and influence policy processes.
SAYWHAT executive director Mr Jimmy Wilford said the whole idea of the training was to capacitate the community-based and youth-focused organisations.
“Young people are often present at public consultations, but without the necessary skills to effectively voice community concerns,” he said.
“This training bridges that gap by equipping them with the basics of advocacy, governance, and strategic communication.”
Participants were drawn from Bulawayo, Matabeleland North, Matabeleland South, Manicaland, Mashonaland West and Harare, representing thematic areas including child rights, disability rights, health, climate action and digital transformation.
Deputy Director of Youth Empowerment in the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Mr Osward Mudhunguyo said the initiative supported the Government’s vision of youth inclusion in achieving the 2030 national development goals.
“We are committed to ensuring that young people are not just consulted but are key players in driving solutions for their communities,” he said.
“This training is part of a broader effort to empower youth organisations to participate meaningfully in governance.”
Following the training, several participants said they were now in a better position to implement community-led advocacy initiatives.
“We have been equipped with strategies for effective lobbying and monitoring Government commitments,” said Mr Tapiwa Dzapasi from Zimbabwe Youth for Impaired Persons Trust.
“This is a crucial step towards amplifying the voices of young people with disabilities.”
Mr Cosmas Rongoti from Shanduko Youpenyu Childcare said the skills gained would enhance accountability within their organisations and communities.
“Learning how to craft advocacy strategies and smart objectives will make our efforts more focused and impactful,” he said.
Funded by the European Union through the Youth Collective Action for Social Transformation project, the programme was part of ongoing efforts to strengthen youth participation in governance and social accountability frameworks.
Mr Mudhunguyo said youth-led organisations will now embark on targeted advocacy campaigns and public engagements aimed at influencing service delivery and policy reforms at local and national levels.
