Harare — The 2026 Youth Inclusive Budget Conference opened this week under the theme “Empowering the Young Drivers of Economic Growth for Sustainable Development to Deliver Vision 2030.”
Addressing delegates, Parliamentary Youth Caucus Chairperson Hon. Stanley Sakupwanya praised young people for their growing role in shaping Zimbabwe’s national budget, recalling the impact of the inaugural conference held in 2025.
“When we gathered for our very first Youth Inclusive Budget Conference last year, many doubted whether the voices of young people could truly shape the national budget,” Sakupwanya said. “But you, the youth, proved them wrong. You spoke boldly, you raised difficult issues, and you demanded action. Today, we can look back and say with confidence: your voice made a difference.”
The conference brings together youth leaders, policymakers, civil society, and government officials to ensure that national priorities reflect the aspirations of Zimbabwe’s young population. Discussions are expected to focus on entrepreneurship, education, job creation, and inclusive economic policies aligned with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030.
Observers note that the growing institutionalisation of youth participation in budget processes highlights a shift towards inclusive governance, where young Zimbabweans are recognised as key drivers of sustainable development.
