By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
The Government of Zimbabwe has approved the National Youth Empowerment Strategy for 2026–2030, a five-year plan aimed at integrating young people into the formal economy and equipping them with skills to drive national development.
Information Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere announced the decision after the 24th Cabinet meeting, saying the strategy was developed through extensive consultations with the private sector, development partners, and youths themselves.
The framework requires ministries, local authorities, the private sector, and development agencies to roll out deliberate programmes in job creation, entrepreneurship, and skills training. It also aligns with the National Development Strategy 2 by mainstreaming youth participation in economic transformation.
“Government is committed to ensuring access to education and training, political participation, economic opportunities, recreational facilities, and protection from harmful practices,” Dr Muswere said.
The strategy is built on five pillars Economic Empowerment; Technology and Digital Transformation; Education and Skills Development; Governance; and Health and Wellbeing supported by cross-cutting themes of Climate Change Adaptation, Gender Equality, and Partnerships.
With Cabinet approval granted, focus now shifts to turning the youth strategy’s ambitions into tangible results over the next five years.