Empowering Young Voices:
Ambassador Makomborero Sivangani from Hwange Chronicles recently attended the Youth Inclusive 2026 Budget Conference at the Parliament of Zimbabwe, where he had the opportunity to interview Hon. Sheila Muchengeti from the Hwange constituency. The conference brought together youth and policymakers to discuss critical issues impacting young people and the national budget.
A Platform for Dialogue
This year’s conference was held under the theme “Empowering the Young Drivers of Economic Growth for Sustainable Development to Deliver Vision 2030.” Hon. Stanely Sakupwanya, Chairperson of the Parliamentary Youth Caucus, opened the event with an inspiring message, reflecting on last year’s achievements and emphasizing the significant impact of youth voices in shaping the national budget.
“You spoke boldly, you raised difficult issues, and you demanded action,” he remarked, highlighting the confidence they now have in the youth’s ability to influence policy.
Thematic Committees
Participants at the conference were divided into committees focused on various thematic issues, allowing young people to critically examine sectoral priorities and propose practical recommendations. This structure not only empowers youth but also ensures a diverse range of perspectives contribute to Zimbabwe’s fiscal and developmental agenda.
Key thematic areas discussed included:
- Youth Employment & Entrepreneurship: Building an economy that creates jobs and fuels startups.
- Quality Education & Skills Development: Aligning educational programs with global market demands.
- ICT & Digital Inclusion: Ensuring every young person has access to the tools needed for the digital economy.
- Governance & Decision-Making: Securing a seat at the decision-making table.
- Health, Wellbeing & Social Protection: Prioritizing the mental and physical health of the youth.
Ongoing Commitment to Inclusivity
The ongoing two-day conference aims to facilitate inclusive dialogue between Zimbabwe’s youth and policymakers, contributing towards a youth-friendly budget and sustainable development.
Hon. Takudzwa Ngadziore emphasized the importance of improving learning infrastructure and provisions for students, especially in the current technological era.
Furthermore, the conference serves as a crucial platform for providing feedback on previous issues raised, allowing for accountability and transparency in the national budget formulation process.
Building on a Legacy
The Parliamentary Youth Caucus is committed to building on the legacy of last year’s historic conference, which empowered young people to influence the national budget directly. The recent Capacity Building Workshop was an essential step in preparing for the upcoming Youth Inclusive Budget Conference, reflecting on past experiences and strategizing for greater impact.
As we look forward to the next chapter in youth-informed budgeting, the call to action remains clear: young voices matter, and their contributions are vital for a sustainable and inclusive future.
Join the conversation and support the ongoing efforts to empower Zimbabwe’s youth!
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