Story by Chiedza Mutyavaviri
PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa has called on young Zimbabweans to actively participate in national development, stressing that they are “the masters of the country’s destiny.”
Speaking at the 2026 National Youth Day celebrations at Igava Training Centre in Marondera, Mashonaland East, this Saturday, President Mnangagwa said youth empowerment remains central to the government’s development agenda. He highlighted initiatives by the Ministry of Youth Development and Vocational Training aimed at ensuring inclusive access to education, skills training, and employment opportunities.
“We are capacitating and empowering our young people, leaving no one behind. To the youths, do not forget that you are the masters of the country’s destiny,” he said.
The President praised a job fair held during the event, which offered young people opportunities to explore careers and employment prospects. He urged the youth to be diligent, focused, and patriotic in contributing to key sectors, including agriculture, mining, tourism, manufacturing, SMEs and digital innovation.
“You are not merely spectators in our development journey, you are active participants demonstrating remarkable leadership. The targets in our National Development Strategy Two demand that young people who are diligent, focused, hardworking and patriotic,” President Mnangagwa said.
He further reaffirmed government support for youth-led initiatives in climate-smart agriculture, infrastructure, digital technologies, and entrepreneurship. The 2026 National Budget includes allocations to support youth development, sports, and the creative industries.
President Mnangagwa concluded by encouraging ongoing dialogue between young people and government, emphasising that youth empowerment is critical for inclusive growth, innovation, and prosperity for all Zimbabweans.
