Story by Wellington Makonese
Government has stressed its commitment to create an ecosystem that allows youth business and innovations to thrive while calling upon all stakeholders to play a part in national development.
The first series of the Catholic Youth Business and Innovation hub exhibition came to life this Saturday evening at St Canisius Parish in Harare, with high end business ventures being paraded.
The Acting President, General (Retired) Dr Constantino Chiwenga and several government officials took time to appreciate the innovation products and services on disposal.
While expressing commitment to establishing a fertile ecosystem for youth business, Dr Chiwenga said collaborations should be prioritised to support development innovations.
“Government is committed to creating a healthier society, reducing the stigma surrounding addiction, and promoting the recovery and reintegration of those affected by substance abuse. A generation free from these challenges is within our reach if we continue to support and empower our youth, and remain united in our resolve to address this issue. As we approach Vision 2030, we acknowledge that achieving our National Development goals requires the collective effort of all sectors of society. The National Development Strategy 1 emphasises the importance of partnerships and inclusivity as we work towards economic growth, social equity, and sustainable development. The church plays a unique and vital role in this journey particularly fostering the entrepreneurial spirit among them. Your innovative ideas and business ventures are not just personal but are vital contributors our economy,” he said.
He also spoke against the drug and substance abuse scourge.
“President Emmerson Mnangagwa launched Zimbabwe Multisectoral Drug and Substance Abuse Plan (2024- 2030), which seeks to provide a strategic framework to guide interventions and policies aimed at prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation for people to build brighter futures. Together with the church, community organisations, and private sector partners, we must build a robust ecosystem that supports your ambitions. Furthermore, we are strengthening legislation and regulatory frameworks to better control the availability and access to harmful substances. Through these concerted efforts, government is committed to creating a healthier society.
Youth believe the business and innovation hub exhibition programme is sure to give them a leap in business.
“This is a platform that has created synergies and new markets as we interact,” a youth said.
Another added, “I am into mechanics, what I’m glad about is that government has opened up avenues for connections to grow ourselves.”
As a seal of commitment to youth empowerment, government allocated around one billion Zimbabwe Gold to the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training to support youth empowerment programmes across the country.
