Harare, Zimbabwe | The government has earmarked a total of US$10 million to support young people in agriculture and an additional US$5 million under the Presidential Youth Mining Equipment Scheme to assist young artisanal miners, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has announced.
These initiatives are part of ongoing efforts to enhance youth empowerment and economic inclusion.
Speaking at the launch of the Presidential Youth Empowerment Scheme in Harare, which drew thousands of young people from across the country’s 10 provinces, the President revealed the establishment of a US$2 million revolving fund to finance youth-led income-generating projects.
“As part of this initiative, today I am launching a US$2 million Presidential Youth Empowerment Revolving Fund to support youth entrepreneurship. Additionally, I am handing over 72 tractors, 10 combine harvesters, 10 vehicles for provincial youth representatives, and 10 borehole drilling rigs,” he said.
Furthermore, President Mnangagwa introduced the US$5 million Presidential Youth Mining Equipment Scheme, designed to equip young artisanal miners with necessary tools. He emphasized that these programs are just the beginning, with more support initiatives planned for the future. The Youth Empowerment Bank will oversee the administration of these funds.
To bolster agriculture, the President revealed that out of a US$50 million government facility aimed at expanding irrigation projects and improving climate resilience, US$10 million has been set aside specifically for young farmers.
President Mnangagwa urged responsible management of these initiatives to ensure they benefit deserving youth.
“As you allocate these resources, I call for fairness, integrity, and ethical conduct. Beneficiaries must be selected based on merit, and corruption or favoritism will not be tolerated,” he warned.
He clarified that the US$2 million empowerment fund should not be seen as a giveaway but rather a revolving loan facility, which must be repaid to ensure continued support for future applicants.
The President highlighted the collaboration between the Zanu PF Youth League and the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development, and Vocational Training, emphasizing that this partnership was essential for effective implementation of youth programs. He also assured that the Youth League structures would be strengthened to provide technical support and monitor the progress of these schemes.
“Embracing technology is key to enhancing productivity. I commend strategic partners who have stepped forward to support youth development through these empowerment programs,” he stated.
President Mnangagwa reiterated that his administration is committed to action rather than mere promises.
“As we continue prioritizing youth empowerment, the Second Republic has actively appointed young leaders to influential governance and decision-making roles. This helps groom a skilled and ideologically sound generation for the future,” he added.
The President highlighted various empowerment programs that have already been implemented, such as piggery, heifer, and poultry schemes. He also emphasized that young people are being allocated land for agriculture and housing, enabling them to establish profitable farming ventures and secure proper accommodation.
“Hard work, discipline, and professionalism are key to success. These values must be instilled in our young people to secure Zimbabwe’s prosperity,” he remarked.
President Mnangagwa encouraged young entrepreneurs to embrace innovation, digital technology, and value chain participation to expand their businesses and reach international markets.
Furthermore, he urged youth organizations to actively participate in community service and environmental initiatives, particularly the National Clean-Up campaign held on the first Friday of each month.
“Youths must uphold the spirit of Ubuntu by engaging in voluntary work to assist the elderly, the vulnerable, and those in need,” he said.
The empowerment scheme launch was themed “Fuel Youth: Ignite the Future” and was attended by several high-profile figures, including Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, Youth Empowerment Minister Tinoda Machakaire, Zanu PF Politburo members, Presidential Investment Advisor Dr. Paul Tungwarara, development partners, and senior government officials.
These new initiatives reaffirm the government’s commitment to creating opportunities for Zimbabwe’s youth and ensuring they play a central role in the country’s economic development.
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