HUNDREDS of young people and community leaders from across Shurugwi North constituency recently thronged Tongogara High School in Ward 12 for the inaugural Youth Indaba, marking a milestone in youth engagement in the district.
The gathering was organised by Shurugwi North legislator, Joseph Mupasi, who said the indaba was designed to bridge the gap between young people and leadership while providing a platform for open dialogue.
“This indaba is about giving our young people a voice,” Mpasi said.
“As leaders, we cannot talk about development without involving the youth. They are the engine that will drive Shurugwi and Zimbabwe towards Vision 2030.”
He said the high turnout reflected the growing desire among young people to participate in national development.
“I am encouraged by the numbers we have seen today,” Mpasi said.
“It shows that our youths are hungry for opportunities, ready to contribute, and eager to take their rightful place in shaping the future of this constituency.”
Zanu PF secretary for south affairs in Shurugwi, Newton Mkunzwe, who officially welcomed delegates, said the event demonstrated the leadership’s commitment to youth empowerment.
- Shurugwi North hosts inaugural Youth Indaba
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“This event is a first of its kind in Shurugwi, Midlands, and Zimbabwe at large, where youths interact closely with their Member of Parliament and our leadership,” Mkunzwe said.
“It is a testament to their commitment to your empowerment and development.”
Centred on the theme Bridging the Gap: Dialogue for Youth Inclusion, the indaba focused on encouraging youth participation in local development, governance, and entrepreneurship.
Mpasi urged young people to use the platform constructively.
“This is your space to speak, to question, and to propose solutions,” he said.
“We are not here to lecture you; we are here to engage with you. If Shurugwi is to grow, we must work together — leaders and youths — side by side.”
He also appealed for discipline and unity of purpose.
“Our discussions must build, not destroy,” Mupasi said.
“We must remain disciplined and focused because the future we want requires collective responsibility.”
Mkunzwe announced that the youth indaba would now be held annually, with the next edition scheduled for Makusha Stadium in Shurugwi town.
“As we begin this journey, I want to assure you that we are committed to making this initiative a success,” he said.
“May our deliberations be fruitful as we work toward a brighter future for Shurugwi and Zimbabwe.”
Meanwhile, a number of youths from Shurugwi North have started driving lessons with support from the MP’s office while many others have received chicks and feed for poultry projects.
Mpasi said the indaba opened up opportunities for youths to venture into mining, carpentry, farming and welding.
“We are happy that our partners like Chengxi Chengetai Investments have started the ball rolling out by mining equipment for youths and this is the first of its kind in Shurugwi,” he said.
“Our door is open for those partners who want to join forces with us in empowering our youths, especially at this moment when we are fighting drug and substance abuse.”
The MP has been raising awareness on drug and substance abuse through sports tournament across the constituency.
