The Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, Hon. Tino Machakaire, has called for the empowerment of young Zimbabweans through sustainable mining training, saying it is a key driver of economic growth and environmental stewardship.
Speaking at a recent engagement with youths and vocational trainers, Minister Machakaire applauded ongoing efforts by vocational training centres to equip young people with practical mining skills, particularly in sustainable and safe mining practices.
“This initiative is about more than just mining—it is about transforming lives, creating employment, and building a future where our youth are at the forefront of national development,” he said.
The training programme, which includes modules in environmental protection, mine safety, and modern mining technologies, aims to reduce the environmental impact of small-scale mining while increasing productivity and community benefits.
Minister Machakaire commended the proactive approach taken by the vocational training centre, noting that the initiative had laid the groundwork for the establishment of a mining hub that will serve as a centre of excellence for mining education and innovation.
He stressed the importance of decentralising mining knowledge and fostering home-grown expertise to ensure that Zimbabwean youth are not only participants but leaders in the sector.
“We must move away from over-reliance on foreign expertise. Our young people have the potential to become professional miners who are both skilled and environmentally conscious,” he said.
The Minister highlighted that access to mining knowledge and continuous training was essential in building a resilient and inclusive mining sector, aligned with the country’s Vision 2030 goals.
He also expressed gratitude to all stakeholders involved in providing training opportunities, describing them as partners in youth empowerment and national progress.
The sustainable mining training initiative is expected to contribute significantly to employment creation, economic development, and the promotion of responsible resource utilisation across mining communities in Zimbabwe.
