Harare, (New Ziana) – Junior Parliamentarians from Harare Metropolitan province on Thursday received tablets, which President Emmerson Mnangagwa donated to them.
Harare Metropolitan Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Charles Tawengwa handed over the tablets on behalf President Mnangagwa.
The Harare Metropolitan province incorporates the capital city, the dormitory town of Chitungwiza, Epworth, and Ruwa, and has 44 junior Parliamentarians, 6 junior Senators, 2 Special and 6 Proportional Representatives respectively.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, which was attended by officials from the Ministries of Primary and Secondary Education as well as Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, Tawengwa urged the junior Parliamentarians to be servant leaders.
“I express my heartfelt congratulations to you for being elected Parliamentarians for your 33rd session, which was officially opened by President Mnangagwa in June this year. He donated these tablets that I will hand over to you. I take pride in this momentous occasion, as these gadgets will go a long way in enhancing your work in the constituencies that you represent in the Junior Parliament to ensure that no one and no place is left behind.
“This marks the beginning of a new chapter. I acknowledge the invaluable contributions that some of you have made in championing youth activities in Harare Metropolitan province and the country at large, as we continue to complement Government efforts in harnessing youth involvement. Your dedication fosters the development of young individuals’ lives.”
Tawengwa applauded the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, through the Zimbabwe Youth Council (ZYC), for enhancing meaningful participation of youths in governance and decision-making processes in the country.
He also reminded the junior Parliamentarians that they were the voices of their peers in a constantly evolving digital world.
“As you represent your constituencies, you must amplify change and stand for all children’s rights, especially during these times when the scourge of drugs and substance abuse faces us.
“You have been equipped with tablet gadgets that will help you connect with the young people in your communities. During your term of office, I urge you to remain focused on your studies as well, seeking out opportunities and gaining more experience,” he said.
After receiving the tablets, the young Parliamentarians, represented by the Junior Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Tapiwa Wadzenenge, highlighted some of the challenges that are affecting their constituencies, including drug and substance abuse, road traffic accidents, suicides, teenage pregnancies, and the topical issue of extra lessons at schools.
Tawengwa assured them that the City of Harare is in the process of crafting a Master Plan which is expected to address some of the issues they raised.
New Ziana
