Online Reporter
Joseph Madzimure and Zvamaida Murwira
Herald Reporters
THE grand halls of Zimbabwe’s New Parliament Building echoed with energy and enthusiasm yesterday as the 33rd Junior Parliament session unfolded in a spectacular display of youthful leadership.
Dressed in crisp uniforms and radiating confidence, the young parliamentarians, judges and even child soldiers delivered a flawless simulation of national governance, leaving dignitaries and onlookers in awe.
The event began dramatically as Child President Lionel Mazarire arrived in a motorcade, his “security detail” moving with precision, mirroring the real-life pomp of a State function. The crowd erupted in cheers as young cadets from Dzivaresekwa Primary School executed a perfect guard of honour, their synchronised drills and sharp salutes setting the tone for the day. Inside the chamber, the session kicked off with the same gravity as an actual parliamentary sitting. Speaker Michael Ndambani, presiding with authority, called the House to order, reprimanding rowdy junior MPs with a firmness that drew laughter and applause. When Child President Mazarire took to the podium, his speech struck a chord. “Child rights do not have to be just words written with ink on paper,” he said.
“They have to be something that a child gets.” His words resonated deeply as the young legislators debated pressing issues, from teacher shortages and digital exclusion to drug abuse and climate change.
The discussions were lively, with each participant eager to contribute solutions. Senior officials, impressed by the young leaders’ insights, responded with concrete commitments.
Primary and Secondary Education Minister Torerai Moyo announced plans to recruit 8 000 new teachers, addressing classroom overcrowding.
He also issued a stern warning against illegal extra lessons, vowing to crack down on offenders. Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Minister Tatenda Mavetera, herself a former junior MP, inspired the children with her journey. “I once sat where you are today,” she said. “If you work hard, listen to your elders and stay focused, you too can lead this nation.”
Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Minister Tino Machakaire revealed a surprise gift from President Mnangagwa: 360 tablets for the Junior Parliamentarians along with Starlink internet kits for their schools.
Senate President Mabel Chinomona beamed with pride as she highlighted the diversity of the Junior Parliament, which has 64 percent girls and 10 children with disabilities among its ranks.
“This assembly embodies the true spirit of Zimbabwe,” she said. “Every child here proves that our future is in capable hands.” As the session concluded, the young MPs marched out to another round of applause, their voices having echoed far beyond the walls of Parliament. For Zimbabwe, the message was clear: the leaders of tomorrow are already here — and they are ready.
Since its inception in 1991, the Junior Parliament has been a cornerstone of youth development in Zimbabwe, nurturing future leaders and amplifying children’s voices in national discourse. Yesterday’s session proved once again that when given the platform, young minds can think critically, lead boldly and inspire a nation. The Day of the African Child celebrations were held under the theme: “Education for All Children in Africa: The Time is Now.” This served as a powerful reminder that Zimbabwe’s children are not just the future: they are shaping the present.
