Mnangagwa takes pupils through Zanu-PF slogans

President Emmerson Mnangagwa yesterday promised to create more positions for young people within Zanu-PF structures as he officiated at the Africa Youth Day and Youth Empowerment Forum at the Magamba Training Centre in Mutasa South constituency.

The event, which celebrated Africa Youth Day on November 1, recognized the entire month of November as Youth Month across the continent, with the African Union dedicated to empowering the youth. Mnangagwa was accompanied by Youth Empowerment Minister Tinoda Machakaire, Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Misheck Mugadza, and Zanu-PF Deputy National Youth Secretary John Paradza.

Before delivering his speech, Mnangagwa led the gathering in chanting Zanu-PF slogans, prompting some schoolchildren to follow suit. His actions, however, faced criticism from teachers' organizations, which condemned his use of schoolchildren for political slogans during a national event.

In his address, Mnangagwa emphasized the crucial role of the youth in Zimbabwe's future development. He assured them that Zanu-PF would ensure youth representation at all levels of governance and the economy. "You as young people, deserve a seat at the table of governance and the economy. You are dependable development partners. As we march towards the realization of our Vision 2030, we are going to create positions in our structures up to the top," he said.

The President reaffirmed the government's commitment to providing quality education that prepares youth for the challenges of modern society. "We will continue to invest in vocational training and ensure that it is accessible, inclusive, and aligned with the needs of today's generation," he added.

Mnangagwa further highlighted the importance of youth forums like the one in Mutasa South, which he described as critical for engaging with stakeholders and ensuring youth development processes are mainstreamed. He encouraged young people to embrace positive values and stay away from harmful behaviors such as corruption, drug abuse, and the pursuit of quick wealth. "We must fight against drug and substance abuse for the sake of our children," he stated.

The forum aimed to foster dialogue between young people and key stakeholders in the development of Zimbabwe, as the country aims to achieve its Vision 2030 goals of becoming an upper-middle-income economy. Mnangagwa's remarks resonated with the broader theme of youth empowerment, though his use of slogans sparked controversy among educators.