Story by Panashe Nagoli
PRESIDENT Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa officially opened the 34th Session of the Junior Parliament in Harare on Tuesday, where young legislators challenged Government to accelerate action on education, water, sanitation and the welfare of children.
From the inspection of the guard of honour to the ceremonial entrance of the Child President, the session underscored Government’s commitment to giving young people a platform to influence national discourse.
Delivering the keynote address, Child President His Excellency Tinashe Mugodhi called for stronger measures to support the growing number of returning Zimbabwean children by ensuring they are successfully reintegrated into the education system.
“We commend the Government for its ongoing efforts to ensure our brothers and sisters return home safely. At the same time, we urge that targeted measures be strengthened to ensure the smooth reintegration of returning children into the education system, including flexible enrolment policies, psychosocial support, and resource allocation to schools receiving increased numbers,” he said.
Inside the chamber, the quality of debate mirrored that of the National Assembly as junior legislators debated a motion on ensuring universal access to water, sanitation and hygiene for every child in Africa.
Members raised concerns ranging from menstrual health and access to clean water to digital connectivity in schools.
“Government must take the issue of pads for the girl child very seriously. The same way we find condoms even here at the New Parliament Building toilets is the same way we should find pads for the girl child,” one junior parliamentarian said.
Another member highlighted the impact of water shortages on rural communities.
“In Gokwe, we do not have water; that is why people are leaving Gokwe for Harare. If we solve the problem of water, we will have doctors and professionals in Gokwe,” the legislator said.
Calls were also made for improved digital access in schools.
“We need WiFi in schools; the world is moving, and we must catch up,” another junior parliamentarian said.
Cabinet ministers responded directly to the issues raised, outlining Government interventions already underway.
Primary and Secondary Education Minister Honourable Torerai Moyo said significant progress had been made in improving access to safe water in schools.
“Seventy-five percent of schools in Zimbabwe have clean running water. However, it is the remaining 25 percent that requires attention, and we are addressing that,” he said.
Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube said Government would continue investing in water infrastructure and menstrual health programmes.
“We are investing in drilling machines through the Devolution Fund so that every Rural District Council can drill boreholes. In terms of free sanitary pads, we will continue to allocate more resources to this programme. We have also established the Industrial Development Fund for those who wish to manufacture sanitary pads locally,” he said.
Agriculture, Mechanisation and Water Resources Development Minister Dr Anxious Masuka reaffirmed Government’s commitment to universal access to water.
“Thirty-five thousand boreholes in 35 000 villages; this is the vision of the President. No girl, no woman must walk five to ten kilometres to fetch water; they must simply open a tap,” he said.
Closing the session, Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Minister Honourable Tino Machakaire commended the junior legislators for demonstrating leadership and maturity.
“You have spoken with confidence. You have debated with maturity. You have challenged us with conviction. Your contributions remind us that leadership is not determined by age, but by vision, courage and a commitment to serve.
“Never underestimate the power of your dreams. Never doubt the value of your voice. Zimbabwe believes in you. Your Government believes in you. You are not merely the leaders of tomorrow. You are already making a difference today,” he said.
Junior Speaker of Parliament Honourable Prince Tarirana adjourned the session after a day marked by robust debate and practical policy proposals, reinforcing the role of young Zimbabweans as active partners in shaping the country’s future.
