By Archford Chirimudombo
Harare, (New Ziana) – The Zimbabwe government is committed to scaling up gender-inclusive programs and initiatives that promote the participation of women in skills development, entrepreneurship, market access and economic empowerment, President Emmerson Mnangagwa said on Monday.
He said this at the second Young Women for Economic Development Convention and the launch of the Presidential Young Women’s Empowerment Fund held in Harare.
Launched four years ago, the convention drew thousands of women from across the country and provided a platform for young women affiliated with the Zanu PF party to deliberate on issues including economic empowerment, business development, leadership and their role in advancing national development.
“Women are called upon to increase their productivity and fully embrace the opportunities available to them. When we empower women, we empower families, communities, and ultimately, our nation. We will continue creating an enabling environment in which women can acquire the skills, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive,” he added.
“I therefore challenge you, as young women, to be champions of innovation, entrepreneurship, and industrial growth. Let us harness your creativity, skills, and determination to drive economic transformation and contribute meaningfully to the attainment of Vision 2030. A nation is built on strong values such as patriotism, discipline, loyalty, and respect. These values are the foundation upon which we can build a prosperous nation and ensure a better quality of life for all our people,” he said.
President Mnangagwa urged young women to remain united and commended them for their commitment to implementing programs that promote and advance women’s empowerment.
“I urge you to build upon the digital training initiatives already underway, using them to enhance household incomes, create sustainable livelihoods, and strengthen adaptive models that enable women and their families to respond effectively to changing economic circumstances,” he said.
Through the policies and programs being implemented by the government, President Mnangagwa reiterated the commitment to creating opportunities that enable women to generate income, build sustainable businesses and achieve economic independence.
“We want to see women prosper, grow their businesses, create wealth, and contribute meaningfully to the development of their families, communities, and our nation. We want rich women. Itai mari (make money),” he said.
President Mnangagwa further called on women to strengthen and provide responsive psychosocial support within communities.
In line with the government’s people-centred development philosophy of leaving no one and no place behind, he said the Presidential Young Women’s Empowerment Fund is being implemented to support and empower young women to participate meaningfully in key value chains across various sectors of the economy.
“This initiative is an important step towards creating opportunities, fostering inclusive economic participation, and ensuring that young women are active contributors to our country’s socio-economic development,” he said.
The convention was held under the theme: “Enhancing and Building Partnerships for Young Women Towards Vision 2030.”
Before the official proceedings, President Mnangagwa toured the Young Women for ED exhibition stands and interacted with young female entrepreneurs who showcased their products, innovations and economic projects.
New Ziana
