Story by Fungai Jachi
YOUTHS from various countries took part at the pre-International Youth Summit on Land and Economic Freedom held in Harare this Wednesday, with government reassuring youths that they will not be left behind in the land reform programme aimed at unlocking economic value.
The pre-summit gave young people from within and beyond Zimbabwe’s borders an opportunity to understand more about Zimbabwe’s land tenure system as well as the economic value of land, with government saying empowering youths through land is one of its top priorities.
“Young people have to stand out and have their voices heard when it comes to land issues. Take the opportunities being given by the government to youths,” Deputy Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Honourable Kudakwashe Mpamhanga said.
“The land reform is urgent and youths are an integral part of it. Government has introduced a new era to unlock economic value. Land must be productive and youths will help in that area,” Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Professor Obert Jiri said.
Cde Webster Shamhu who represented ZANU PF National Political Commissar, Cde Munyaradzi Machacha, said the ruling party will do all it can to promote youth participation in the land reform programme.
“This is what the liberation struggle was all about and we shall defend what we fought for. Youths are important and as a party, we will continue to support them by ensuring they have land,” he said.
Chairperson of the African Youth Congress, Cde Taurai Kandishaya noted that the pre-summit was a success, with youths optimistic of making a difference in their communities through the knowledge acquired.
“The pre-seminar was a success and we had over 45 countries participating online. Youths should be present in the land conversation and we are unapologetic about it.”
At least 75 countries are set to participate at the International Youth Summit on Land and Economic Freedom slated for April this year.
