The Ministry Core Values exist to define how we work and serve. They set the standard for staff conduct, team culture, and service delivery so every action reflects Zimbabwe’s interests and public trust.
Desire or love for one’s country (Zimbabwe first).
State of being transparent, accountable, responsible, and answerable for one’s and our collective action.
Leveraging each other’s experiences and strengths and working inclusively with love and respect.
Initiating and embracing new methods or ideas for enhancing service delivery timeously.
Honesty, trustworthiness, steadfastness, and adherence to moral and professional principles.
MINISTER
DEPUTY MINISTER
PERMANENT SECRETARY
Supports youth entrepreneurship through policy creation, funding management, business incubation, and creating economic opportunities for youth in various sectors
Learn MoreEncourages national identity and civic responsibility among youth through career guidance,
Provides youth with technical and entrepreneurial skills through vocational training, public-private partnerships, and curriculum development to improve employability and self-sufficiency.
Focuses on youth entrepreneurship by developing policies, providing technical support, creating business hubs, and establishing public-private partnerships for youth empowerment.
The Ministry, with support from SNV is establishing rabbit cluster for youth in Murewa District. The rabbit cluster is being supported through distribution of rabbit does and bucks to youth. The rabbit does and bucks are being sourced from existing Murewa rabbit farmers. The cluster will also have a meat company that will be responsible for aggregating rabbit for slaughter and supplying the meat to the market.
The Ministry is establishing a milk aggregation centre at the Umguza Vocational Training Centre in Umguza District. Once the facility is completed, the centre will function as a parlour-based aggregation point where milk from nearby youth farmers will be collected, consolidated, and prepared for onward delivery to milk processors. The centre is intended to improve the quality and consistency of milk supply by supporting more reliable collection systems, encouraging young farmers to sell through an organized structure, and helping ensure that milk is handled in a more hygienic and standardized way before being transported to processors.
The Skills for Youth and Women Employability and Productivity (SYWEP) Project is being implemented by the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training with financial support from the African Development Bank (AfDB) and technical implementation support from the International Labour Organization (ILO). The project focuses on three priority value chains, one of which is horticulture, to be implemented at Kaguvi Vocational Training Centre (VTC). Good progress has been recorded in establishing the horticulture project. The foundation works for the 100 000 litre water tank have been successfully completed, and the site is now ready for the concrete pouring stage. Once completed, the water tank will enhance the project's irrigation capacity, ensuring a reliable water supply to support year-round horticultural production.
The Ministry in partnership with ZimTrade, continues to promote youth-led agricultural transformation through the establishment of a peas production cluster in Mutoko District. The initiative is centred at Tabudirira Vocational Training Centre (VTC), which serves as the cluster’s aggregation and coordination hub. The programme was introduced to empower young farmers through commercial peas production, enabling them to participate in high-value agricultural value chains while creating sustainable livelihoods and income-generating opportunities. Through the cluster model, young farmers are benefiting from improved access to technical support, practical training, market linkages and shared production resources. To support the initiative, Tabudirira VTC established a half-hectare demonstration plot dedicated to peas production. The plot serves as a practical learning platform where young farmers are exposed to recommended agronomic practices and modern farming techniques aimed at improving productivity and profitability. The cluster comprises six young farmers operating within the Tabudirira area. At Chitora 2 Irrigation Scheme, four young farmers jointly cultivated 1.2 hectares of peas and have already commenced harvesting. The crop is expected to yield approximately 10 tonnes this season, reflecting the success of the young farmers' efforts and the effectiveness of the cluster approach. In addition, two other young farmers each established one hectare of peas, further increasing the cluster’s production capacity. Collectively, the six young farmers have cultivated three hectares of peas, with total production projected to reach approximately 18 tonnes during the current season. The anticipated harvest demonstrates the potential of youth participation in commercial agriculture and highlights the capacity of young people to contribute meaningfully to food security, economic growth and rural development. Through access to training, markets and production support, the young farmers are transitioning from subsistence farming to commercially oriented agricultural enterprises. The Mutoko peas cluster further showcases the evolving role of Vocational Training Centres in empowering young people and driving community development. Beyond skills training, centres such as Tabudirira VTC are becoming incubation hubs for entrepreneurship, innovation and agricultural production. Through strategic partnerships and practical empowerment programmes, the Ministry remains committed to equipping young people with the skills, resources and opportunities needed to participate actively in Zimbabwe's economic development agenda.
Kaguvi Vocational Training Centre (VTC) commissioned an 80kVA solar power plant in the Midlands Province to improve practical training, reduce electricity costs, and host national events. The US$61,000 renewable energy project was funded through a US$58,500 EmpowerBank loan, with an additional US$2,500 used for security fencing. The solar facility was officially commissioned on July 2, 2026, by the Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, Hon. Tino Machakaire. It stands as the largest solar installation at any VTC in the Midlands Province, allowing the institution to transition toward affordable and sustainable energy.
Update
Blessings Chidakwa, Senior Reporter FIRST Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa has implored young people to translate their leadership skills into practical solutions to challenges facing their communities, urging them to champion discipline, integrity and accountability while driving positive change and contributing to national development. Dr Mnangagwa said this yesterday while presiding over the lively inaugural graduation ceremony of the First Lady’s Youth Vanguard Movement Training Programme at the University of Zimbabwe in Harare, following the launch of the pioneering initiative at the same institution in March this year. The programme seeks to nurture disciplined, innovative and action-oriented young leaders who can drive good governance, entrepreneurship, community development and socio-economic transformation. The graduates are expected to become catalysts for community transformation by developing practical solutions to challenges affecting families and communities across Zimbabwe. From improving local livelihoods and creating business opportunities to strengthening accountability and addressing social challenges, they are expected to translate the leadership skills acquired during the programme into tangible benefits for all Zimbabweans. The graduation ceremony also recognised outstanding participants, with cash prizes awarded to top-performing graduates. Nyasha Tigere received the Best Overall Student award, while Sharon Satande came second and Tapiwa Masulumadi third. Addressing the jubilant graduates, Dr Mnangagwa said the initiative was established to nurture, mentor and equip young people to participate confidently in leadership, governance and national development, contributing to President Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030 aspiration of transforming Zimbabwe into a prosperous and empowered upper-middle-income society. As Patron of the Youth Vanguard Movement under the Angel of Hope Foundation, the First Lady also said the programme was designed to prepare a generation capable of translating knowledge into practical solutions to challenges affecting their communities. “A certificate is recognition of work completed; it is not the final measure of leadership. The true value of this programme will be seen in how you use what you have learnt, the quality of decisions you make, the people you serve and the positive changes you help bring about. I therefore challenge each one of you to become a practical problem-solver. “When you return to your communities and institutions, look carefully at the challenges around you. Listen to the people affected. Identify opportunities, bring people together, develop realistic solutions and follow through,” she said. Dr Mnangagwa added: “Whether your contribution is in public service, business, education, community development, innovation or another field, let it be guided by integrity, accountability and a clear sense of purpose.” The programme, which ran for three months this year, brought together young people from across the country’s 10 provinces through face-to-face and virtual learning engagements. It covered leadership development, governance and civic engagement, project management, sustainable entrepreneurship, participatory community development and accountability reporting. Through group projects, presentations, leadership development plans and capstone showcases, participants had opportunities to translate classroom lessons into practical applications. Dr Mnangagwa said the graduation was not merely the end of a course but a celebration of the graduates’ growth and readiness to lead. She urged them to sustain the movement through service, innovation, ethical leadership and community development. “To the graduates, I ask you to carry the spirit of the Youth Vanguard Movement into every space you enter. Let your leadership be visible in the quality of your work, the respect you show others, the solutions you develop and the accountability with which you exercise responsibility. “Do not wait for a position before you begin to serve. Leadership starts with the choices you make and the contribution you offer wherever you are,” she said. Dr Mnangagwa emphasised that true leadership was defined by actions and service rather than titles, positions or status. “It is demonstrated through service, humility, courage, consistency and results. A leader must be willing to listen, to learn, to accept constructive feedback and to take responsibility. You must be prepared to work with others, respect different perspectives and place the common good above personal interest,” she said. "Achieving this aspiration calls for capable institutions, innovation, discipline, good governance and citizens who are prepared to contribute meaningfully. It also calls for young people who understand that they are not merely the leaders of tomorrow; they are important contributors to the development of our country today.” Emphasising that national development must leave no one and no place behind, the First Lady encouraged graduates to maintain the networks established during the programme, support one another and mentor other young people, drawing on their diverse talents and experiences to strengthen the country’s leadership pipeline. “To our young women and men, I urge you to believe in your capacity to lead and to use your talents responsibly. Do not allow fear, limited exposure or the absence of immediate opportunity to define your potential. “At the same time, remember that confidence must be matched by preparation, discipline and hard work. Let your conduct reflect the values and standards expected of the leaders you aspire to become,” she said. The First Lady further urged graduates to seek guidance from experienced leaders and share their knowledge with others to ensure the continued development of capable future leaders. Dr Mnangagwa also commended the University of Zimbabwe leadership, facilitators and other stakeholders for supporting the training programme. “Your collective effort has helped turn the vision of this movement into a meaningful learning experience,” she said. Best Overall Student Nyasha Tigere thanked Dr Mnangagwa for creating an opportunity for young people to develop into empowered and responsible leaders, saying the training had equipped them with skills and values to make a positive difference in their communities. She said the programme had helped groom participants into responsible young people capable of exercising leadership with confidence, discipline and purpose. “I want to thank the First Lady for giving us an opportunity to become empowered leaders, but not just leaders, responsible young people as well. The programme has groomed us to become better leaders who can make a positive difference in our communities,” she said. Second-best student Sharon Satande also applauded Dr Mnangagwa for creating a platform through which young people could develop their leadership potential. She said the programme had taught them the importance of responsible leadership, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence, particularly when working with people from different backgrounds. “Through this programme, we have learnt how to become good leaders, respect one another and live harmoniously with people from different backgrounds. Leadership is not just about holding positions, but also about understanding others, working together and being responsible for our actions,” she said. Another graduate, Tapiwa Masulumadi, said the programme had instilled in participants a strong sense of responsibility and accountability, which were essential qualities for young people entrusted with leadership roles. “Through this training, I learnt that as young people, we must take responsibility for our actions and remain accountable in carrying out the duties entrusted to us. We should demonstrate commitment, take our responsibilities seriously and be answerable for the roles we undertake,” he said. Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development Minister Ambassador Frederick Shava commended Dr Mnangagwa for her commitment to empowering communities and humanitarian work. “We are privileged to witness the graduation of the inaugural cohort of the Youth Vanguard Movement, marking an important milestone in advancing youth participation and leadership development. “This occasion reflects the First Lady’s unwavering commitment to nurturing responsible, skilled and empowered young people who can contribute meaningfully to the development of our nation,” he said. Minister Shava said initiatives that equip young people with relevant skills and leadership values were important in preparing them to contribute to national development. University of Zimbabwe Vice Chancellor Professor Paul Mapfumo said the Youth Vanguard Movement was equipping young people with practical leadership skills needed to address community challenges and contribute to national development. Prof Mapfumo thanked the First Lady for entrusting the University of Zimbabwe with the responsibility of implementing the initiative, describing it as an important investment in the country’s future leadership. He said her commitment to youth development reflected the importance of investing in young people as contributors to national transformation. “There is no person who loves you more than a person who educates you,” he said, acknowledging the First Lady’s role in creating opportunities for young people to acquire knowledge and leadership skills. Prof Mapfumo said the graduates had undertaken practical projects, presentations and leadership activities that strengthened their communication, public speaking, negotiation, strategic planning and accountability skills. He said the programme complemented the university’s Heritage-Based Education 5.0 philosophy, which emphasises innovation, industrialisation and community service. “The true measure of your success will not be the certificate you receive today but the contribution you make to your communities, your workplaces and your nation,” he said. Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Tino Machakaire commended the First Lady for going beyond providing resources to young people by investing in building their character, strengthening their discipline and restoring their values to prepare them to become responsible citizens. He said the Youth Vanguard Movement reflected the First Lady’s unwavering commitment to nurturing a generation of disciplined, responsible and patriotic young Zimbabweans. “Your Excellency, the Youth Vanguard Movement is yet another powerful testimony to your unwavering commitment to our young generation. You have recognised that empowering young people is not simply about giving them resources. “It is about building their character, strengthening their discipline, restoring their values and preparing them to become responsible citizens,” he said. Minister Machakaire also said his ministry would complement the First Lady’s initiatives by supporting youth development, including facilitating access to youth empowerment funds. Harare Metropolitan Province Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Senator Charles Tawengwa said the Youth Vanguard Movement was nurturing a generation of patriotic, innovative and service-oriented young people equipped to contribute to national development. He said the graduates had a responsibility to become ambassadors of the values and skills acquired through the programme, adding that their competencies would contribute to the objectives of the National Development Strategy 2. “The graduates are pioneers, role models and torchbearers for future generations. They carry a special responsibility to demonstrate the discipline, innovation, productivity and commitment to national development that they have acquired through this movement,” he said. Following the successful implementation of the programme, graduates equipped with project management skills can help communities identify pressing needs, mobilise resources and implement initiatives that improve livelihoods. Those equipped with entrepreneurship skills can also contribute to job creation, innovation and economic empowerment, particularly among young people.
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Joseph Madzimure Zimpapers Politics Hub At least 6 000 cadets were recruited and deployed to Dadaya, Vumba and Guyu training centres against an annual target of 10 000 during the period between the 22nd Zanu PF National People’s Conference held in Mutare in 2025 and this year’s conference held in Chinhoyi. According to the Zanu PF Central Committee report, the party’s Secretary for Youth Affairs, Cde Tino Machakaire, said the Zimbabwe Youth Service remained a flagship programme for equipping young people with practical skills, national identity, discipline, employability, life skills and a sense of national responsibility. “The department coordinated the recruitment of 6 000 cadets deployed to Dadaya, Vumba and Guyu training centres against an annual target of 10 000,” said Cde Machakaire. He added that capacity-building initiatives were underway at Mashayamombe, Rushinga and Dzimwe Vocational Training Centres. He stated that efforts to expand youth service and vocational training infrastructure are underway, with two major centres under construction: the Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa Youth Service and Vocational Training Centre at Igava, Marondera, and the Joshua Nqabuko Nyongolo Nkomo Youth Service and Vocational Training Centre in Matabeleland. Cde Machakaire indicated that 60 Vocational Skills Training Centres were undergoing rehabilitation. He said the Youth League worked with EmpowerBank to establish and strengthen production units at Youth Service and Vocational Training Centres, enabling trainees to apply their skills in practical enterprise settings. “The Department engaged the Public Service Commission, parastatal boards and captains of industry to create employment, internship and work-based learning pathways for young people,” he said. “A key outcome was the directive to prioritise qualified Youth Service graduates for employment in the Public Service.” He said the Department had worked with the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training to compile a database of Youth Service graduates, organised by their qualifications and competencies. Qualified graduates, he said, are being referred for interviews and given priority consideration for funded Public Service posts. On sport, talent development and youth empowerment, Cde Machakaire stated that the Department promoted sport as an instrument for youth development, talent identification, employment and economic empowerment. “It supported the launch of the US$25 million Munhumutapa Cup Tournament, designed to develop football talent from grassroots level to international competition over five years,” he said. The Department, he noted, also directed the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture to prioritise maintenance, rehabilitation and upgrading of sporting facilities to international standards.
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Today 258 trainees( 188 males and 70 females) graduated from various Vocational Training Centres in Matebeleland South Province. The Hon Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training,Hon Tino Machakaire,ably represented by the Chief Director in the Ministry,Mr Elias Murinda, encouraged the youths who acquired various skills to go out and start their own investments closely working with Empowerbank. “Let me take this opportunity to encourage today’s graduating trainees to take advantage of the funding mechanisms that have been set up by the Government, including the facilities being provided by Empowerbank that aim to uplift young people through financial inclusion.” said Hon Machakaire. create a titile for this
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