Mnangagwa warns youth

PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa has called on Zimbabwe's youth to reject politicians who seek to use them as instruments to undermine the country's sovereignty and unity.

He made the remarks during the burial of national hero Brigadier General (Rtd) Donald Silundi Tshuma at the National Heroes Acre in Harare yesterday, where he reflected on the sacrifices made during Zimbabwe's liberation struggle.

Mnangagwa said the late national hero was of a similar age to many young people today when he crossed into Zambia to join the liberation war, urging the youth to draw inspiration from such sacrifice.

"To the youth, I want to highlight that the late national hero was your age when he crossed into Zambia to liberate our country," he said.

"We are now enjoying peace, independence and freedom as a result of the sacrifices of our forebears.

"I challenge you, therefore, to defend our revolution and reject those who want to use you as tools to denigrate your country."

The President encouraged young people to pursue entrepreneurship and innovation across sectors such as digital technology, agriculture and scientific research, saying youth should be active participants in national development.

"Choose to be part of those building our nation as entrepreneurs across all sectors including the digital space and in laboratories and on our God-given land," he said.

"The modernisation, industrialisation and realisation of Vision 2030 are ours together."

Mnangagwa reaffirmed that his administration remains committed to continuing what he described as the revolutionary journey.

"Under my leadership, the revolution still continues," he said.

"As Zimbabweans — from Plumtree to Mutare, Beitbridge to Chirundu — we are clear about this sacred obligation.

"This path will never be abandoned; under the fourth Chimurenga, the revolution persists."

He also highlighted what he described as positive economic progress, citing reports from international financial institutions including the IMF, World Bank and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, which project growth of 6,6 percent in 2025 and 5 percent in 2026.

"The positive results of our policies are undeniable," Mnangagwa said.

He pointed to improvements in key sectors such as energy, transport, water and information communication technology infrastructure.

The President further noted mining as a major driver of economic growth, with sector earnings reportedly reaching US$7 billion in 2025, and emphasised the need for local beneficiation and value addition.

Mnangagwa also highlighted ongoing reforms aimed at broad-based empowerment, including increased participation of local communities in small-scale mining, particularly gold production.

He said agriculture remained central to Zimbabwe's development agenda, describing it as key to achieving national food security and sovereignty.

Mnangagwa reiterated his government's commitment to modernising the economy and promoting inclusive development, urging youth to play an active role in building what he described as a prosperous and self-reliant nation.