President Emmerson Mnangagwa officially launched the National Youth Empowerment Strategy (2026–2030) and challenged Zimbabwean youth to adopt a mindset of entrepreneurship, innovation, and self-reliance as the country accelerates towards Vision 2030.
Speaking at the inaugural National Youth Empowerment Symposium held at the Harare Agricultural Showgrounds, President Mnangagwa said the youth are central to Zimbabwe’s ongoing development.
“It is my singular honour and pleasure to officiate at this inaugural National Youth Empowerment Symposium, which is running under the theme, ‘Empower the Youth, Secure the Future.` This event is another testament that the Second Republic continues to recognise the youth as the future of our country and driving force of our on-going development agenda. Your fresh perspectives, innovative ideas and boundless energy are indeed critical ingredients to propel our nation forward,” he said.
The Head of State said Government will continue to implement policies and programmes that equip young people with tools for success.
“As the youth of our beloved motherland, Zimbabwe, you are valuable national assets. The numerous policies, programmes and projects, being implemented by my administration will, therefore, continue to harness your skills and abilities to ensure development that leaves no one and no place behind,” he said.
The President called for youth-focused communication to be decentralised to the grassroots level.
“This will guarantee that information shared at such vital platforms is accessible to all our young people in all official languages,” he said.
He urged young people to lead the digital transformation of the country and develop critical future skills.
“We are now living in a digital era where digital skills are no longer optional; but are the new literacy. You, the youth of our country, are called upon to be at the forefront of this transformation,” he said.
Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, Hon. Tino Machakaire, said the symposium was a key platform to equip young people with knowledge and opportunities.
“The symposium seeks to address the challenges that limit youth from participating meaningfully in economic development. It bridges critical gaps by shifting the mindset from job-seeking to job creation,” he said.
The President concluded by commending the talent and innovation displayed at the symposium, describing it as a reflection of the nation’s potential through hard, honest work.
