Chiwenga reflects on challenging childhood

Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has opened up about his difficult childhood, recounting how he overcame numerous challenges to become one of Zimbabwe's key leaders.

Chiwenga was speaking at Madhana homestead in Machekera village, Hwedza South constituency, Mashonaland East, during celebrations for his uncle, Sylvester Nyika, who turned 83. Nyika is the father of Zanu-PF Makoni district coordination committee secretary for lands, Shepherd Nyika.

Addressing attendees, Chiwenga encouraged Zimbabweans to be resolute in facing challenges and called for national unity. "There is no education more important than what we are given by our parents. Let's live in unity and peace. Let's be one, let's live in Christ," he said.

He shared his experience of joining the liberation struggle after dropping out of school in Form Three. "I remember my uncle was sent to look for me during the war but could not find me. Sometimes I think I burdened my mother, but I was happy to see her after Independence," he said.

Also present was Youth Empowerment Minister and Hwedza South lawmaker Tinoda Machakaire, who warned young people against drug abuse, saying it was a major threat to longevity and national development. "To reach 83 years is a milestone. Many youth of today will not reach this age because of drug abuse, which is wreaking havoc in the country," he said.

Observers have linked the rise in substance abuse among the youth to boredom and unemployment, noting that promises of 2.2 million jobs under President Mnangagwa's 2018 manifesto have yet to materialise.

Chiwenga's reflections offered both a personal insight into his life and a broader call for discipline, resilience, and unity among Zimbabweans.