Mnangagwa brings back 'Green Bombers'

President Emmerson Mnangagwa officially reinstated the National Youth Service (NYS) program yesterday, encouraging young people to embrace the controversial initiative, which he portrayed as a continuation of the struggle for youth empowerment.

Mnangagwa launched the program at Nhakiwa in Uzumba, Mashonaland East province, after it had been suspended for several years due to financial constraints. Originally criticized as a breeding ground for the feared Zanu-PF youth brigades, dubbed "Green Bombers" for their distinctive paramilitary uniforms, the NYS faced opposition for its association with political violence.

Speaking in Uzumba, Mnangagwa hailed the program's revival as a significant moment in history. He reminded the youth of the sacrifices made by their predecessors in the struggle for independence and urged them to safeguard the nation's freedom.

Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga echoed Mnangagwa's sentiments, describing the relaunch as long overdue and praising the president's commitment to nurturing innovation among young people.

Under the program, training lasts for six months, with graduates promised automatic entry into the civil service. Originally initiated by the late Youth Minister Border Gezi in 2001, the NYS has faced criticism for its alleged involvement in electoral violence, including reports of rape and murder targeting opposition MDC activists, according to various human rights reports.