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Mnangagwa wants youngsters to be proud of their identity
18 Nov 2024 at 15:23hrs | Views
President Mnangagwa has called on the younger generation to take pride in their African identity and rich cultural heritage, emphasizing their pivotal role in shaping a future of sustainable economic growth, industrialization, and modernity for the continent.
Speaking at the Regional World Children's Day commemorations in Victoria Falls over the weekend, the President, who also serves as SADC Chair, underscored the importance of unity across the Southern African region despite political boundaries.
Pride in African Identity
Addressing a gathering of over 7,000 children from across the region, President Mnangagwa said:
"I call upon you, our children, to be proud of your African identity and belonging to the Southern African region. Although you come from different countries within SADC, we are one united people with a shared history cemented by the liberation struggles that brought independence and freedom."
He stressed that the younger generation must embrace their heritage and aspire toward a common future built on peace, social justice, and prosperity.
Education for the 21st Century
President Mnangagwa highlighted the need for an education system that equips African children with heritage-based knowledge and 21st-century skills.
"To achieve this, we must establish resilient education systems with increased access to inclusive, lifelong, quality, and relevant learning," he said.
He reiterated his administration's guiding philosophy, Nyika Inovakwa Nevene Vayo ("A country is built by its own people"), and urged the youth to understand that their role in developing the continent is critical.
"You must grow up knowing that you have the duty to build, develop, and industrialize your countries, our SADC region, and the world. Never look down upon yourselves. You are capable of standing shoulder to shoulder with children from other continents," he said.
Promoting the African Brand
The President also encouraged the youth to champion the African brand through arts, culture, heritage, and the continent's natural resources and tourism potential.
"These are critical aspects of our identity and have the power to foster inclusive societies and drive economic and social transformation. Let us promote and consume our unique African products," he added.
High-Level Attendance
The celebrations, held under the theme "Educate and Skill the African Child for Posterity," drew dignitaries including Botswana's President Duma Gideon Boko, Namibia's Deputy Prime Minister John Mutorwa, and high-level representatives from South Africa, Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique.
The event served as a platform for emphasizing the importance of education, unity, and self-reliance among African youth as the continent works towards achieving its developmental goals.
Speaking at the Regional World Children's Day commemorations in Victoria Falls over the weekend, the President, who also serves as SADC Chair, underscored the importance of unity across the Southern African region despite political boundaries.
Pride in African Identity
Addressing a gathering of over 7,000 children from across the region, President Mnangagwa said:
"I call upon you, our children, to be proud of your African identity and belonging to the Southern African region. Although you come from different countries within SADC, we are one united people with a shared history cemented by the liberation struggles that brought independence and freedom."
He stressed that the younger generation must embrace their heritage and aspire toward a common future built on peace, social justice, and prosperity.
Education for the 21st Century
President Mnangagwa highlighted the need for an education system that equips African children with heritage-based knowledge and 21st-century skills.
"To achieve this, we must establish resilient education systems with increased access to inclusive, lifelong, quality, and relevant learning," he said.
He reiterated his administration's guiding philosophy, Nyika Inovakwa Nevene Vayo ("A country is built by its own people"), and urged the youth to understand that their role in developing the continent is critical.
"You must grow up knowing that you have the duty to build, develop, and industrialize your countries, our SADC region, and the world. Never look down upon yourselves. You are capable of standing shoulder to shoulder with children from other continents," he said.
Promoting the African Brand
The President also encouraged the youth to champion the African brand through arts, culture, heritage, and the continent's natural resources and tourism potential.
"These are critical aspects of our identity and have the power to foster inclusive societies and drive economic and social transformation. Let us promote and consume our unique African products," he added.
High-Level Attendance
The celebrations, held under the theme "Educate and Skill the African Child for Posterity," drew dignitaries including Botswana's President Duma Gideon Boko, Namibia's Deputy Prime Minister John Mutorwa, and high-level representatives from South Africa, Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique.
The event served as a platform for emphasizing the importance of education, unity, and self-reliance among African youth as the continent works towards achieving its developmental goals.
Source - The Herald
