Story by Bruce Chahwanda, Political Editor
PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa has expressed confidence in the ability of Zimbabwean youth to drive national progress through the modernisation and industrialisation of the country’s economy.
He made the remarks while addressing thousands of young people who gathered in Zvishavane for the Munhumutapa Day celebrations on Monday, which coincided with his 83rd birthday.
“Your dynamism and energy are indeed a crucial force that must continue to drive progress, modernisation and industrialisation in our beloved motherland, Zimbabwe.You are the descendants of the Great Munhumutapa; as a nation, we believe in your potential, we have confidence in your ability to propel our country forward, into a brighter and more prosperous future.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to you, the ZANU PF Youth League and the generality of the young people of our country for organising and attending this important event. Today’s programme coincides with my birthday, and I thank you all for this thoughtful gesture. Tinokutendai nekuuya nehuwandu hwenyu kuzopembera zuva iri,” he said.
The Head of State said Munhumutapa was more than historical but an embodiment of culture which young people must emulate for a united Zimbabwe.
The Munhumutapa Day holds great historical and cultural significance for our nation. As one of the most powerful and prosperous kingdoms in Southern Africa, the Munhumutapa Empire remains a beacon of inspiration for our youth to remain resolute in the preservation of our rich legacy. It should remain a source of motivation as we look into the future, towards Vision 2030. Munhumutapa represents more than just a historical figure; he embodies the values of nation-building, leadership, and sovereignty.
“The Munhumutapa Empire of old was built on trade in precious minerals and long-distance commerce with far-away nations. The Empire was renowned for its stable government, advanced architecture and trade networks. Similarly, the respect of religion, culture and spirituality was central to governance, peace and security.
“The Empire laid the centuries old foundations of what we now treasure as our beloved motherland, Zimbabwe. We stand on the shoulders of that great legacy. This is the heritage that you, our young people, must continue to preserve, promote and advance. In this era of rapid change, the historic Munhumutapa Empire’s social, economic and governance system should also serve as a benchmark as we build a prosperous and empowered nation,” he added.
Under the Second Republic, several empowerment initiatives meant to uplift families, communities and the nation at large, are being pursued.
“Under my leadership, we have witnessed remarkable strides in infrastructure, governance, and economic growth. Working together with the Youth League, we have rolled out new empowerment initiatives such as the Munhumutapa Housing Scheme; the Presidential Youth Empowerment Fund; the Presidential Mechanisation Programme; as well as the Heifer and Goat Programmes, among many other important programmes that have contributed to the development of our youth.
“These programmes are evidence that you, the young people of our country, are ready and willing to put shoulder to the wheel as we build our country brick by brick and stone upon stone. I urge you to make effective use of the availed empowerment initiatives to develop our country as well as your communities and families. Individually and collectively, you must do more to lift yourselves and more of our people out of poverty into prosperity,” highlighted the President.
With drug and substance abuse having become rampant among young people, President Mnangagwa reiterated the need to shun such vices for posterity.
“The youth of yester-year fought against the seen enemy of colonialism and imperialism. Today, yours is a fight against an enemy that is across all communities and often unseen. This includes decadent cultures advanced through ICT platforms as well as drug and substance abuse. I call upon you, the youth of our country, as well as our Zimbabwean youth in the diaspora, to shun these vices.
“Protect your identity and the integrity of the Zimbabwe of today, and indeed that of the future. Only patriotic and sober young people, with a clear national consciousness can build a prosperous Zimbabwe. Drugs will rob you of your ability to fulfil your God-given purpose and destiny and also weaken families, ultimately leading to the degradation of our national fabric. You must, therefore, to protect your minds and bodies from all vices that threaten you as Zimbabwean and African young people. Choose discipline over destruction. A healthy nation is a productive nation,” he emphasised.
Munhumutapa Day is the brainchild of the ZANU PF Youth League and coincides with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s birthday.
The day is meant to celebrate his achievements towards building a prosperous Zimbabwe towards attainment of Vision 2030.
