THE Government, through the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, has unveiled the CAMFED Enterprise Development Fund, a multi-million‑dollar initiative designed to transform vulnerable young women into business owners, innovators and leaders. The launch, held in Harare yesterday, marked the fulfilment of commitments made earlier this year at the Youth in Business Forum, which focused on creating platforms that connect youth with financial service providers. Combining Government policy support with CAMFED’s financial pledge, the programme seeks to close gaps in youth financial inclusion and ensure no youth is left behind in economic transformation. Speaking at the launch, Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Tino Machakaire said the nation’s prosperity lies not in its natural resources, but in its citizens. “The true wealth of any nation is not found beneath its soil, but within its people. “When we invest in young people, we invest in innovation, productivity and the future prosperity of our nation.” The National Youth Empowerment Strategy (2026–2030) indicated a lack of access to basic financial services such as bank accounts, credit facilities, and insurance, particularly in rural areas, as some of the bottlenecks to empowerment. In this regard, Minister Machakaire highlighted how the US$1 million Youth Empowerment Fund and CAMFED’s US$2.2 million pledge are now materialising into tangible opportunities. “Today, we are witnessing those commitments becoming reality. The Enterprise Development Fund represents hope for countless young women and confidence in their abilities,” he said. He emphasised collaboration as the key to sustainable development, adding that youth unemployment cannot be solved by one institution alone. “Sustainable development requires collaboration. Through this partnership, we will continue creating pathways that connect young people to skills development, entrepreneurship, access to finance, markets, innovation and sustainable livelihoods.” In her remarks, CAMFED Zimbabwe executive director Ms Justina Hama emphasised that the organisation’s mission was to move young women from the classroom into business and leadership roles. “What our experience has taught us is that education opens the door, but it is economic opportunity that allows a young woman to walk through it and remain there.” She said while CAMFED could mentor, train and provide seed capital, Government policy was essential to building successful models nationwide. “So this is why your ministry becomes indispensable to our work. It is Government, through the Ministry of Youth, that sets the policy environment that champions youth financial inclusion,” she said.

Story by Chikomborero Kanyemba GOVERNMENT has launched the Youth Economic Empowerment Fund in Manicaland Province, expanding access to loans through EmpowerBank to help young entrepreneurs establish and grow businesses under the Second Republic’s youth empowerment programme. The provincial rollout follows the launch of the national US$1 million fund during the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) in April. Young entrepreneurs in Manicaland are already benefiting from the facility, using the loans to expand operations, create jobs and invest in new business opportunities. Director of Fries Agricultural Enterprises, Mr Raymond Nyamuzinga, said the funding had enabled him to scale up his poultry business. “I started my company in 2019 after receiving funding from EmpowerBank. This year, following the launch of the Youth Economic Empowerment Fund, I secured another loan to expand my poultry business. So far this year, I have sold a cumulative total of 20 000 layers in different batches. I currently have 6 000 layers in production and have employed 22 young people,” he said. Mac Fencing Chief Executive Officer and loan beneficiary, Ms Kundai Mumera, said the funding had strengthened the company’s production capacity. “The loan has enabled us to expand our fencing manufacturing and supply business. We have increased our raw material stocks, improved production and are pleased to see the business continuing to grow,” she said. Another beneficiary, Mr Alfred Chimwata, Director of Chimwata A Investments, said the fund had enabled him to turn an idea into a viable business. “I had the vision but lacked the capital to get started. When I heard about the Youth Economic Empowerment Fund, I applied through EmpowerBank and received funding. My goal is to install Starlink kits in schools so that children in rural areas have the same access to the internet and learning opportunities as those in urban areas,” he said. EmpowerBank Board Chairperson, Mr William Chaitezvi, said the facility has generated strong demand from young entrepreneurs nationwide. “To date, EmpowerBank has received 537 applications nationally, valued at approximately US$1.39 million. Of these, 202 applications have been approved, resulting in loan disbursements of more than US$510 000. “In Manicaland Province alone, we have received 124 applications. So far, 53 loans have been disbursed, amounting to approximately US$141 900,” he said. Launching the provincial programme, Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, Honourable Tino Machakaire, said the initiative is designed to unlock the economic potential of young Zimbabweans. “The Government has committed US$1 million to the Youth Economic Empowerment Fund, which will be distributed across all ten provinces. Across the country, many young people have innovative ideas, valuable skills and the determination to succeed. What has often been missing is access to capital to turn those ideas into successful businesses. “This fund is more than financial assistance. It is an investment in productivity, inclusion and the future of Zimbabwe’s young people,” he said. Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza, urged beneficiaries to make productive use of the facility. “Where opportunities exist, let us maximise them together. Our objective is to ensure that this fund delivers measurable and lasting benefits throughout the province. I urge young people to embrace this opportunity with discipline, commitment and a strong sense of responsibility,” he said. The Youth Economic Empowerment Fund targets Zimbabweans aged 18 to 35 with viable business proposals and is being rolled out nationwide through EmpowerBank to increase youth participation in economic development.

Zimbabwe’s youthful population should be regarded as the country’s greatest asset Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Minister Tinoda Machakaire said yesterday. Speaking at the launch of the 2026 Demographic Futures Survey during World Population Day commemorations in Harare, Minister Machakaire said: “Today, Zimbabwe joins the global community to commemorate World Population Day 2026. We meet at a unique intersection of history. The global conversation shifts from merely counting numbers to making every individual count. For Zimbabwe, population metrics are not sterile figures on a balance sheet. Our population of over 17,2 million people carries a distinct, powerful signature: a median age of just 18,3 years. Over 60 percent of our citizens are young people. This is our demographic dividend,” he said. The Minister said Government remained committed to investing in young people through the recently approved National Youth Policy, which promotes economic empowerment, skills development, innovation, health and participation in national development. “Our youthful population is not a challenge to be managed; it is our greatest asset to be developed. We want young people to move from job seekers to job creators, from consumers of technology to innovators, and from beneficiaries of development to leaders of development,” he said. Minister Machakaire said Government was expanding vocational training centres, strengthening youth empowerment programmes and tackling drug and substance abuse while improving access to quality reproductive health information and services. The survey said young Zimbabweans remain optimistic about marriage and parenthood. It found that while most young Zimbabweans still desire to marry and have children, many cite challenges such as financial insecurity. The survey, conducted among more than 108 000 young adults aged 18 to 39 across 73 countries, was launched jointly by the Government of Zimbabwe and UNFPA under the theme: “Realising the hopes and aspirations of young people – today and for the future.” Presenting the findings, UNFPA Zimbabwe representative Ms Miranda Tabifor said the report provided unprecedented insight into how young people view their future and the factors influencing decisions on marriage and parenthood. “In Zimbabwe, as elsewhere, the path to a resilient and prosperous future lies in our ability to listen to young people and create the conditions where they can thrive. “The Demographic Futures Survey confirms that young people value partnership and parenthood, but their ability to realise these aspirations is hampered by systemic barriers. We must move beyond simply managing demographic shifts to actively investing in the capabilities, health and rights of our youth,” she said. The survey indicated that for the majority of young adults, financial security, stable employment, and emotional readiness are the top preconditions for becoming parents. It found that while 68 percent of respondents still regard marriage as an ideal and 80 percent desire to have children, economic realities are delaying those aspirations. According to the report, economic and housing constraints emerged as the biggest obstacle to parenthood, followed by a lack of a suitable partner and health and reproductive concerns. The report further revealed that financial security was the most important condition for parenthood, with 88 percent of respondents citing it as essential, followed by stable employment (87 percent) and emotional readiness (85 percent). Ms Tabifor said the findings should guide governments, policymakers, employers and development partners in designing policies that respond to the realities facing young people. Zimbabwe’s demographic profile reflects significant inequalities in reproductive outcomes. Although the country’s total fertility rate stands at 3,9 children per woman, urban women have an average of 3,1 children, compared to 4,6 among rural women. Women with higher education average 2,6 children, while those with only primary education average 5,1, highlighting the influence of education, opportunity and choice on family size. United Nations Resident Coordinator Ms Rosemary Kalapurakal said Zimbabwe stood at a defining demographic moment and urged policymakers to use the survey findings to shape investments in young people. “When we talk about numbers and population, we are actually talking about people. We are talking about their dreams, opportunities, choices and indeed the future of this nation. If we are serious about realising the hopes and aspirations of young people, we must first listen to them, understand their concerns and allow that evidence to shape the decisions we make.”

Youth Service Zimbabwe (YSZ) graduate trainees are providing assistance at the Beitbridge Border Reception Centre for individuals returning to Zimbabwe. This support forms part of the Repatriation Programme and aims to ensure a smooth, safe, and well-coordinated reception process. The YSZ graduate trainees are working alongside relevant officials and partner teams to carry out various duties during the programme. Their duties include offering assistance to returning persons, supporting reception and orientation, assisting with documentation and coordination where required, and promoting order and effective service delivery at the reception point. In addition, the Ministry has an information desk at the border entry point, where young people can access information about the Ministry and its programmes. Registration is also open for empowerment opportunities.

Ray Bande Senior Reporter THE Government is carrying out a registration and training needs assessment for young Zimbabweans returning from South Africa as part of efforts to facilitate their reintegration and link them to youth empowerment opportunities across the country. Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, Mr Solomon Mhlanga, revealed this on the sidelines of the ministry’s senior management workshop held in Mutare last Friday. Mr Mhlanga said the exercise was designed to identify the skills, qualifications and support needs of returning youths so that they can be effectively incorporated into existing Government programmes aimed at enhancing livelihoods and economic participation. “Currently, the registration and training needs analysis is being undertaken as youth returnees enter the country. “The ministry has recognised the importance of reintegrating young Zimbabweans returning from South Africa, and is doing so through existing youth empowerment programmes,” he said. He explained that returning youths are eligible to participate in the same development and empowerment initiatives available to other young Zimbabweans, provided they satisfy the relevant criteria. “Young returnees are generally eligible to participate in the same youth programmes as their local counterparts, subject to meeting the prescribed requirements,” said Mr Mhlanga. Among the programmes available are the Youth Service in Zimbabwe, vocational skills training and access to funding for youth-led enterprises. Mr Mhlanga said participation in the Youth Service programme will help returning youths reconnect with their communities while creating valuable social and professional networks. He added that the country’s vocational training centres offer opportunities for returnees to acquire new skills or upgrade existing competencies, thereby improving their prospects for employment or self-employment. “Eligible young returnees with viable business proposals can also access support through the Youth Empowerment Fund to establish or expand income-generating projects and facilitate their economic reintegration,” he said. Meanwhile, Zimbabwe is preparing a bid to host the 2027 YouthConnekt Africa Summit, one of the continent’s premier youth development platforms. Mr Mhlanga said the proposed bid reflects Zimbabwe’s growing commitment to youth empowerment and its readiness to host a major continental gathering dedicated to entrepreneurship, innovation, skills development and employment creation. YouthConnekt Africa was launched by the Government of Rwanda in 2012, and has since evolved into a continent-wide initiative supported by the African Union, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), development partners and African governments. The platform connects young people to economic opportunities, innovation ecosystems, entrepreneurship support, mentorship programmes, financial inclusion initiatives and policy dialogue forums. Its flagship event, the YouthConnekt Africa Summit, brings together youth leaders, entrepreneurs, policymakers, investors, development partners, academics and private sector players from across Africa. The annual summit provides a platform for showcasing innovation, sharing best practices, forging partnerships and advancing youth-centred development policies. “Zimbabwe has been an active participant in YouthConnekt Africa initiatives and has consistently demonstrated its commitment to youth empowerment. Government continues to implement various programmes guided by the Constitution, Vision 2030, National Development Strategy (NDS2), the National Youth Policy (2026-2030) and the National Youth Empowerment Strategy (2026-2030),” said Mr Mhlanga. He said hosting the summit will provide Zimbabwe with a valuable opportunity to showcase its youth development achievements while strengthening regional and continental cooperation. Read more on: www.herald.co.zw Since 2024, the YouthConnekt Africa Secretariat has adopted a competitive bidding process for selecting host nations, a move intended to promote transparency and fairness. Mr Mhlanga said hosting the 2027 summit will position Zimbabwe as a continental leader in youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, innovation and skills development. The event is expected to attract more than 6 000 delegates from across Africa and beyond, including Heads of State and Government, ministers responsible for youth affairs, development partners, investors, academics and young entrepreneurs. “Hosting the summit will stimulate economic activity through increased demand in tourism, hospitality, transport, trade and other service sectors associated with a major continental event,” he said. He added that the summit will enhance Zimbabwe’s international profile while strengthening diplomatic and development cooperation with other African countries and development partners. Mr Mhlanga said the gathering aligns with Government priorities under NDS2, particularly in areas such as youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, job creation, the creative economy, sport and culture. The summit will also create significant opportunities for local young people by connecting them to continental and international networks. Participants will be able to engage potential investors, showcase youth-led businesses and innovations, access mentorship and business development support, and strengthen their participation in regional value chains under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Mr Mhlanga said hosting the Summit will accelerate the implementation of the National Youth Policy (2026-2030) by attracting investment into youth-led enterprises and creating greater visibility for the country’s flagship empowerment programmes. “Hosting the YouthConnekt Africa Summit 2027 presents a strategic opportunity for Zimbabwe to promote tourism, strengthen its international image, attract investment, deepen continental partnerships and demonstrate its commitment to youth empowerment while contributing towards the attainment of Vision 2030,” he said.

ZIMBABWE’s Junior Parliament has become a significant force having gone far beyond legislative engagement in combating pressing social issues such as drug and substance abuse, an official has said. Aritifical Inteligence usesAritifical Inteligence uses This is because the young parliamentarians are regarded as opinion leaders within their communities and schools, capable of influencing behavioural change among their peers through various projects and advocacy initiatives. In a statement, the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training director of communication and advocacy Mr Ranson Madzamba says Junior Parliament addresses various social ills affecting young people. He said Zimbabwe Junior Parliament Session and commemoration of the Day of the African Child are set to be held at the new Parliament building on Wednesday. The two events are expected to bring together young people, policymakers, development partners, community leaders, civil society organisations and other stakeholders. “Junior Parliament aims to address a range of issues affecting the youth, offering a space where their voices can be heard and their concerns can influence policy decisions. As one senior member remarked, “Anything for the youths without the youths is not for the youths,” emphasising the importance of youth participation in matters that directly impact their lives,” he said. Since its establishment in 1991, the Junior Parliament of Zimbabwe has played a vital role in empowering young people across the nation to participate actively in shaping their future. Serving as a replica of the national Parliament, this platform provides a unique avenue for youth involvement in governance, community issues and national development. This initiative aligns with several national and international frameworks, including Zimbabwe’s Constitution, the National Youth Policy 2020-25, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child. It enables representatives from all 210 constituencies to share their thoughts, experiences, and ideas with Government officials, fostering a culture of inclusivity and responsiveness. Mr Madzamba said the platform also invites stakeholders including Government agencies, non-governmental organisations and international partners to reflect on investments in children’s rights and well-being. It presents a crucial opportunity to evaluate progress made and identify the challenges that remain in ensuring young people’s rights are fully realised in Zimbabwe. He said Junior Parliamentarians are tasked with bringing forward youth concerns, participating in policy development and spearheading community projects aimed at addressing children’s issues. They’re also instrumental in raising awareness, conducting education programmes and establishing clubs that promote leadership and social responsibility. In the same vein, he said the Significance of the Day of the African Child cannot be over emphasised. “June 16 holds special significance for Africans, commemorating the brave students of Soweto who, in 1976, lost their lives protesting against racial discrimination and poor education standards. Over 700 children were massacred during the Soweto uprising, symbolising the fight for quality education and equality. “In Zimbabwe’s history, the sacrifices of young people include the tragic loss of over 6,000 women and children at Chimoio in 1977 and 1,028 lives at Nyadzonia in 1976. These young heroes and heroines fought tirelessly for a free, democratic Zimbabwe where liberty, fraternity and equality prevail. The Day of the African Child honours their memory and calls for ongoing commitment to address the challenges facing children across the continent,” he said. The Day of the African Child seeks to advocate and lobby for children and young people’s rights, promote child-friendly budgeting and resource allocation and to also enhance leadership skills among children and young people. Mr Madzamba said as Zimbabwe continues to nurture its young leaders through platforms like the Junior Parliament, the nation reaffirms its dedication to creating a supportive environment where youth can thrive, participate and lead. The also day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made and the vital importance of safeguarding the rights and futures of Africa’s children.

A US$61,000 investment in renewable energy has positioned Kaguvi Vocational Training Centre (VTC) as home to the largest solar power installation at any vocational training centre in Midlands Province following the commissioning of an 80kVA solar system expected to improve practical training, reduce electricity costs and boost the institution's capacity to host national events. The project, commissioned during the closing of the 2026 National Vocational Training Centres Sports Gala, was financed through an EmpowerBank loan facility of US$58,500, with an additional US$2,500 invested in security fencing. Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, the Provincial Centre Head of Kaguvi VTC, Benson Peter Mazani said the project demonstrates Government's commitment to developing skills through improved infrastructure. "Hosting nine provincial teams while commissioning a major infrastructure project speaks to the vision of His Excellency the President: 'Skills, Sport and Infrastructure for National Development.' Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo," he said. The Mazani said the solar installation would address one of the institution's biggest challenges by ensuring uninterrupted electricity supply for practical lessons. "Power outages have been our biggest cost and training disruptor. With 80kVA, we can now run workshops, ICT laboratories and refrigeration for Hospitality without interruption. That means more practical hours for our students," said Mazani. He added that the project would also ease the institution's operational costs. "The system will cut our ZETDC bill by an estimated 60 percent monthly. Those savings are being redirected to student consumables, sports equipment and maintenance. The loan is therefore an investment that pays itself," he said. Beyond reducing costs, the Mazani said the installation would serve as a practical learning facility for students studying electrical and solar technologies. "Our Electrical and Solar students witnessed the installation and will be involved in maintaining and monitoring this system. We are producing graduates who can be deployed in rural schools, clinics and mines. This is Ilustro and vocational skills in action," he said. He said the reliable power supply, together with support from Vungu Rural District Council in upgrading roads and assistance from Conhse Mine with water supplies, had strengthened Kaguvi VTC's ability to host major events. "This solar system makes Kaguvi VTC a reliable venue for national events. We hosted the Provincial Gala, and with stable power, water from Conhse Mine's bowser and graded roads from Vungu RDC, we are now ready for bigger national and regional programmes," said Mazani. The Centre Head thanked EmpowerBank, the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, Vungu Rural District Council, Conhse Mine, ZETDC, the Rural Electrification Agency and other stakeholders for supporting the project, pledging that Kaguvi VTC would safeguard the investment to ensure it continues producing skilled graduates who contribute to Zimbabwe's development. Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, Tinoda Machakaire, commended Kaguvi VTC for the achievement, describing it as a demonstration of the important role vocational training institutions play in Zimbabwe's development. "I commend Kaguvi Vocational Training Centre for the successful commissioning of its solar plant. This milestone is a shining example of innovation, self-reliance and sustainability in action, values that are at the very heart of vocational training, and a demonstration of how our VTCs continue to lead in practical, forward-looking development," said Machakaire. Reporting by Mbekezeli Ncube

THE 2026 Vocational Institutions Sports Association moved a gear up with provincial sides clashing at Kaguvi Vocational Training Centre in the Midlands Province. With all provinces represented in various disciplines, the VISA games have taken a national outlook amid excitement that has been building up ahead of tomorrow’s official opening ceremony, expected to be presided over by the Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Tino Machakaire. The Ministry’s director of communication and advocacy Ranson Madzamba, is satisfied with the manner the games, which are also being used as a vehicle to fight drug and substance abuse, have gone. “The games will be running until July 3, under the theme “From play to purpose, shaping future drug-free champions through sports in Vocational Training Centres’’. Organisers confirmed a 100 percent turnout, with every provincial delegation arriving safely for the annual multi-sport competition, underlining the growing importance of the games in promoting sport and youth development within vocational training institutions. The opening day was devoted entirely to track and field events, where student athletes competed across a range of disciplines. Attention has, however, since shifted to the ball games, with matches underway in football, netball and volleyball. Madzamba said the tournament extends beyond sporting competition by contributing to the holistic development of students. “The VISA Games play an important role in supporting students’ personal growth, strengthening institutions and fostering community engagement. “The tournaments bring together students from different Vocational Training Centres, promoting friendship, mutual respect and national cohesion. They also create opportunities for cultural exchange and networking beyond the classroom,” said Madzamba. Madzamba added that the qualities acquired through sport, including resilience, problem-solving, teamwork and time management, improve students’ employability while providing a platform for talented athletes to earn recognition beyond the vocational training system. He said the games also promote institutional pride, gender inclusion and social integration by offering equal opportunities for male and female students to compete. “The VISA Gala is an investment in holistic education. It develops healthy, disciplined and confident young people while strengthening relationships among institutions and communities. Competition continues throughout the week, with teams battling for honours across the various sporting disciplines. By late yesterday, Midlands were leading with eight gold medals, followed by Mashonaland Central with six gold medals.

Government is stepping up efforts to use sport as a weapon against drug and substance abuse among young people, with vocational training institutions being positioned at the centre of that campaign. Speaking at the official opening of the 11th Vocational Institutions Sports Association (VISA) National Tournament at Kaguvi Vocational Training Centre in Gweru, Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Tinoda Machakaire said the integration of sport into vocational education is helping shape responsible and productive citizens. He said the tournament's theme reflects Government's commitment to ensuring young people channel their energy into positive activities that promote healthy living and personal growth. "Sport occupies our young people's time and energy productively, builds their self-esteem, and provides a positive alternative to the destructive path of drug and substance abuse that continues to threaten the future of our nation," said Machakaire. The Minister said vocational training is about more than equipping young people with technical and entrepreneurial skills, stressing that institutions must also produce graduates with strong values and leadership qualities. "Sport plays an equally important role in shaping character. It teaches discipline, respect, leadership, perseverance, teamwork and integrity, qualities that every successful artisan, entrepreneur, employee and community leader must possess," he said. Machakaire said Government will continue modernising vocational training centres to nurture innovation, entrepreneurship and holistic youth development in line with Vision 2030. He added that the country's economic transformation depends on young people who are not only technically skilled but also physically fit, mentally resilient and socially responsible. He also challenged participants to use the national tournament to strengthen unity and build lasting friendships across the country. "As we continue investing in vocational education, let us also continue nurturing sporting excellence and reinforcing the fight against drug and substance abuse among our youth. Zimbabwe needs young people who can innovate in the workshop, compete on the field of play, create businesses, generate employment, and contribute to building a prosperous nation," said Machakaire. Reporting by Mbekezeli Ncube