Zimbabwe’s Deputy Minister of Local Government and Public Works and Member of Parliament for Nketa Constituency, Albert T Mavunga, is representing the country at a continental youth leadership platform in Ethiopia.
Speaking on the sidelines of the gathering, yesterday, Mavunga expressed gratitude to President Emmerson Mnangagwa for the opportunity to represent Zimbabwe on a continental stage.
“Thanks to President Emmerson Mnangagwa for giving us the opportunity to represent Zimbabwe on the continent of Africa, speaking to young leaders from all over the continent in Ethiopia at AYLDC 2026,” he said.
The Deputy Minister said the forum provides a critical platform for Zimbabwe to share its development experiences while also learning from other African nations.
“This engagement allows us to exchange ideas, strengthen networks and promote a shared vision for sustainable development driven by the youth.
Zimbabwe remains committed to empowering young people as key drivers of economic growth and social transformation,” Mavunga added.
Mavunga noted that the participation of Zimbabwean officials at such high-level forums reflects Government’s broader policy thrust of youth inclusion and international engagement.
“Our presence here underscores the importance that Zimbabwe places on youth leadership and continental collaboration. We are here not only to represent our country but to contribute meaningfully to discussions shaping Africa’s future,” he said.
He added that the interactions with young leaders from across the continent are expected to yield practical insights that can be applied back home.
“We are engaging with innovative minds and emerging leaders whose ideas can inspire policy direction and community development initiatives in Zimbabwe,” Mavunga said.
Zimbabwe has in recent years intensified efforts to promote youth participation in governance and development processes, in line with its national vision of inclusive growth and socio-economic transformation.
Participation in continental platforms such as AYLDC forms part of the country’s strategy to strengthen regional cooperation and harness the potential of young leaders in driving Africa’s development agenda.
