Story by Wellington Makonese
YOUTHS have been reminded of the need to shun disruptive behavior and participate in progressive programmes.
With a focus on the forthcoming harmonised elections later this year, a youth engagement held in Harare’s Mabvuku Suburb this Thursday, saw youths being reminded of the need to shun social ills that threaten their productivity and contribution to national development.
ZANU PF Secretary for Youth Affairs, Honourable Tino Machakaire noted that as the party takes stock of its membership, it is imperative to draw youths towards progressive programmes.
Hon Machakaire said, ‘‘We are in a programme established by the President to verify our cells and we are in one of the areas with a large youthful population. What is more exciting in our engagements is that some have not registered to vote but this has given us a platform to enlighten them on what to do for them to be registered, we also took the opportunity to teach them the grave dangers of substance abuse which is high. Yes, we are in an election year but we need to have youths with a future.’’
The programme has opened avenues for engagement between families and the youth.
FAZ representative Ms Gracious Chapasuka noted, ‘‘We are in an age where the family unit is fragmented that is why children end up doing drugs and girls marrying early, so we have this platform to initiate dialogue and raise awareness as to what people need to do to maintain a balanced society.’’
The meeting saw 100 elderly and physically challenged people receiving wheelchairs, courtesy of ZANU PF and its affiliate organisation, Forever Associate Zimbabwe (FAZ).
A beneficiary said, ‘‘Over the past few years I haven’t been walking due to ailments and aging but today my life has turned for the better, I want to thank the President and his people.
Another beneficiary noted, ‘‘I came here using two walking sticks because I am visually impaired as well, only to be surprised through this gift, I have no better words to express my gratitude.’’
The ruling party ZANU PF is currently conducting cell building and verification exercises countrywide ahead of primary and national elections set for later this year.
