Youths a top priority of gvt – Minister

The protection and empowerment of youths is a top priority of government, and will do everything possible to ensure they have equal access to opportunities, education, healthcare, and inclusive participation in the decision-making process, a cabinet minister said on Wednesday. Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Minister, Tino Machakaire said this in Harare at celebrations marking Africa Youth Day. He said it was important to recognise and strengthen youth endevours in socio-economic, political and other spheres as demographically young people now constitute the majority of the population on the continent.

“Africa Youth Day serves as a platform to highlight the achievements, resilience, and potential of millions of African youth and their role in driving socio-economic, political, and cultural progress on the continent,” he said. Machakaire said formal celebrations of the day would be held on later this month at Harare City Sports Centre where President Emmerson Mnangagwa will be invited to attend.

“This is meant to open up access and a platform for the President to dialogue with the youth while celebrating the youth on the continent, strengthening opportunities for young people to contribute, channel youth motivation, energy and creativity towards political, social, environmental and economic renewal,” he said.

“The celebrations will be attended by young people drawn from all the country’s provinces representing all the youth sectors. Besides local participants, regional youth bodies have also been invited to attend the celebrations and present solidarity messages regarding the youth empowerment agenda. Youth organisations, associations and UN agencies will be invited to exhibit.”

“May this day be a reminder of the strength and resilience that lies within you. Embrace your uniqueness, seize opportunities, and never stop believing in yourself. Together, let’s build a brighter tomorrow for Africa, where every young person has the chance to thrive and make their mark.”

New Ziana