Story by Aifheli Mudau
GOVERNMENT has urged youths to formalise their businesses and organise themselves in order to attract funding and unlock economic opportunities.
This comes as the Second Republic continues to create opportunities aimed at positioning youths as drivers of national development.
Some youths said they had gained insight into the importance of formalisation in accessing government support.
“We have been encouraged to formalise and work together so that we can get assistance from government. We have learnt that there are many opportunities for youths, and government has urged us to organise our businesses and formalise our hustles in order to access funding,” said one youth.
Another youth said formalisation would help young people contribute meaningfully to the economy.
“We have learnt that there are a lot of opportunities out there for us as youths, and government is ready to assist us. We have been encouraged to move away from informal hustling towards formalisation so that we can contribute significantly to the economy of our country.”
The primary focus is on accelerating job creation and youth entrepreneurship.
Zimbabwe Youth Council Matabeleland South Provincial Manager, Mr Godwin Mazarire, said the programme is also aimed at strengthening youth structures and improving access to opportunities.
“We are encouraging and capacitating emerging youth associations on the importance of registration as we advance towards Vision 2030. We want them to be organised, and we are also equipping them with various skills. Once youths are organised, it becomes easier for them to access opportunities from government.”
Matabeleland South Youth Quota legislator, Honourable Tinashe Mushipe, said youths are beginning to take advantage of economic opportunities availed by government.
“We appreciate the space that has been created for youths in Zimbabwe to take charge of their economic opportunities under the leadership of President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa. More opportunities are being rolled out for youths to take advantage of.”
Empowerment of youths remains key to government as the Second Republic continues to avail life-changing projects that include business ventures into horticulture and other opportunities.
Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Albert Nguluvhe, said formalisation is key to ensuring youths are recognised and supported by government and financial institutions.
“For youths to be recognised by the government, they need to be formalised and work together. I will also engage banks responsible for youth empowerment programmes so that they can establish offices in Beitbridge for easier access by youths.”
Government’s continued efforts to engage youths are meant to improve their livelihoods through the development of economic opportunities.
