PRESIDENT MNANGAGWA CELEBRATES NATIONAL YOUTH DAY , LAUNCHES DIGITAL SKILLS PROGRAM
By Tinashe Mukori.
Bulawayo, February 21, 2025 – President Emmerson Mnangagwa delivered an inspiring address at the National Youth Day celebrations held at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) Grounds in Bulawayo. Speaking under the theme “Empower Youth, Secure the Future,” the President called upon young people to take an active role in shaping the country’s destiny.
In his speech, President Mnangagwa welcomed the youth and international delegates, emphasizing the importance of unity, solidarity, and peaceful coexistence within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region and the broader African continent. He urged young people to embrace learning, share knowledge, and work together for the betterment of their communities and countries.
“The prosperity and future of our region and Africa is in your hands. We, the older generation, played our part to bring about independence, freedom, and peace. The ball is now in your court,” he stated.
The President reaffirmed the government’s commitment to youth empowerment, noting that National Youth Day served as a recognition of young people’s potential. He praised the large turnout and the electric atmosphere of the event as a testament to the nation’s unity. President Mnangagwa also lauded the youth’s awareness of Zimbabwe’s history and urged them to resist divisive forces threatening national harmony.
He highlighted the government’s ongoing decentralization of national events, ensuring that no one and no place is left behind. Reflecting on the sacrifices of past generations, he called on the youth to embody courage, selflessness, and bravery in nation-building. “The unity and peace we enjoy today is a fundamental inheritance of the liberation struggle. No one must jeopardize or endanger these critical national aspects,” he emphasized.
President Mnangagwa underscored his administration’s efforts to place young people in leadership and decision-making roles across government ministries, agencies, and strategic institutions. He challenged those in leadership positions to uphold discipline and servant leadership while galvanizing fellow youth towards national development. “Stay vigilant and patriotic at all times. Defend the integrity and dignity of our country, leadership, and people,” he urged.
Highlighting the importance of digital literacy, President Mnangagwa launched the Zimbabwe Digital Skills Development Programme in collaboration with the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This initiative aims to train 1.5 million young people in programming, data science, and Android development. He stressed the significance of equipping the youth with technological skills to enhance their employability and foster innovation.
The President also commended youth entrepreneurs and urged government ministries and financial institutions to support their growth. He called on the private sector, Youth Empower Bank, and development partners to develop tailored programs for young business owners, including graduates from vocational training centers and tertiary institutions.
Acknowledging the disciplined parade by members of the Youth Service in Zimbabwe Programme, Cde Mnangagwa praised their patriotism and commitment to national identity. He directed the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development, and Vocational Training to expedite the finalization of the National Youth Act to bolster youth empowerment efforts.
Addressing the issue of drug and substance abuse, he warned that there would be no leniency for drug lords and urged communities to cooperate with law enforcement agencies to eliminate this societal vice. “Together, let us endeavor to achieve a drug-free society. That is the Zimbabwe we all want,” he declared.
Concluding his speech, the President expressed appreciation to the leadership of Bulawayo for organizing the event successfully. He emphasized that National Youth Day should be a platform for hope, social cohesion, and unity while reminding all citizens of their responsibility to safeguard Zimbabwe’s independence and liberation heritage.
“As we build our beloved motherland, Zimbabwe, brick by brick, stone upon stone, step by step, let us remain united, vigilant, determined, and focused,” he concluded, wishing all attendees safe travels back to their provinces.
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