Zimbabwe’s Deputy Minister of Local Government and Public Works has called for stronger youth participation in governance and policy-making at the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) Youth Forum currently underway in Addis Ababa.
The high-level gathering, hosted by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, is being held under the theme “Peace, Development and Inclusive Leadership: Youth as Policy and Action Drivers in Africa.” It has brought together young leaders from across the continent to deliberate on key issues shaping Africa’s future.
“Stronger youth participation in governance and policy-making is essential for sustainable development and inclusive leadership across Africa,” said the Deputy Minister.
The Deputy Minister is leading a Zimbabwean delegation comprising Junior Councillors and the Ministry’s Youth Desk Coordinator. The delegation is actively participating in discussions focused on the implementation of the African Youth Charter and the critical role of local governance in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
During the conference, the youth representatives took part in a series of breakout sessions addressing climate resilience, digital transformation in local governance, and inclusive policy-making. These engagements provided a platform for sharing experiences, exchanging ideas, and exploring innovative, youth-driven solutions to challenges affecting communities across Africa.
“Empowering young people as active contributors to governance processes is vital for social cohesion and long-term development,” the Deputy Minister added on the sidelines of the forum.
The UNECA forum has also exposed the Zimbabwean delegation to broader continental development frameworks such as Agenda 2063, enabling participants to move beyond localized perspectives and appreciate Africa’s long-term vision for growth, integration, and unity.
For the Junior Councillors, the experience has been transformative, strengthening their capacity to advocate for youth-inclusive policies within their respective local authorities. Their participation underscores Zimbabwe’s commitment to nurturing future leaders and promoting grassroots governance.
The conference has further served as a platform for capacity building and international exposure, reinforcing the Ministry’s focus on developing youth leadership as a cornerstone of national and continental development.
Upon their return, the Junior Councillors are expected to cascade the knowledge gained by presenting key insights to their local authorities, ensuring that lessons from the forum translate into practical actions that benefit communities across the country.
