Harare, (New Ziana) -President Emmerson Mnangagwa has launched two major youth empowerment initiatives, allocating a total of US$7 million to support young entrepreneurs and artisanal miners.
The funding, which includes a US$2 million Presidential Youth Empowerment Revolving Fund and a US$5 million Presidential Youth Mining Equipment Scheme, aims to enhance youth participation in key economic sectors.
Speaking at the launch event in Harare, which was attended by thousands of youths from across Zimbabwe’s 10 provinces, President Mnangagwa emphasized transparency and accountability in the allocation of funds. He warned against favoritism and corruption, urging authorities to ensure the schemes benefit deserving and capable youth.
“To advance this endeavor, today I am launching a US$2 million Presidential Youth Empowerment Revolving Fund that is earmarked to fund youth income-generating projects. I am also launching a US$5 million Presidential Youth Mining Equipment Scheme for our young artisanal miners,” Mnangagwa said.
He said the US$2 million revolving fund will be administered by the Youth Empowerment Bank, stressing that it is not a free handout as beneficiaries should repay their loans to ensure continued support for other aspiring youth entrepreneurs.
In addition to financial support, President Mnangagwa announced the provision of 72 tractors, 10 combine harvesters, 10 vehicles for provincial youth leaders, and 10 borehole drilling rigs to boost youth participation in agriculture and infrastructure development.
The government is also mobilizing an additional US$50 million to accelerate irrigation development, with US$10 million specifically reserved for youth-led farming and mining projects.
President Mnangagwa highlighted that youth empowerment remains a core focus of his administration, citing previous initiatives such as piggery, poultry, and heifer schemes, as well as land distribution for agriculture and housing.
He encouraged young people to embrace innovation, technology, and discipline to maximize opportunities within the evolving economy.
“As we continue to explore avenues to deliberately empower the youth, the Second Republic has appointed many young people into strategic areas of governance and decision-making,” he said.
President Mnangagwa also called on youth organizations, including the Zanu PF Youth League and the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, to actively participate in community service initiatives, including the National Clean-Up Campaign held every first Friday of the month.
The event, held under the theme “Fuel Youth: Ignite the Future,” marked a significant step in Zimbabwe’s ongoing efforts to create a sustainable and inclusive economy for young citizens.
New Ziana
