The Tonganyika Trust has launched phase two of its practical training programme in Mangwe district, introducing free practical driving lessons to broaden employment opportunities for youths.
Registration is being conducted through Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training structures in the district.
The expanded programme builds on the success of Phase One, which saw 81 youths graduate in beauty therapy, hotel and catering, mortuary assistant and dispensary assistant, with some completing one-month industrial attachments at local businesses in Plumtree.
Founder of the trust and Tourism deputy minister, Tongai Mafidi Mnangagwa, said the initiative remains focused on equipping young people with practical skills that translate into economic empowerment.
“Our thrust as the Tonganyika Trust is to ensure that young people acquire skills that are relevant, practical and income-generating,” Mnangagwa said.
“Phase two comes in response to the strong uptake and positive impact recorded during the first phase in Mangwe.”
He said the introduction of free practical driving lessons for participants with learner licences was a strategic move aimed at widening access to employment.
“Many young people already have learner licences, but fail to proceed due to financial constraints,” Mnangagwa said.
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“By offering free practical lessons, we are removing that barrier and opening doors to opportunities in transport, logistics and other sectors.”
Privy Nleya, Ministry of Youth official in Mangwe, urged aspiring trainees to prepare the necessary documentation and register through the appropriate channels.
“We are encouraging all interested youths to come forward and register, in an orderly manner, through the ministry structures. Interest has been overwhelming, which shows how much this programme is needed in our district,” Nleya said.
Mangwe Ward councillor, Simphiwe Vuyelwa Mguni, welcomed the return of the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention.
“We thank MP Mnangagwa for his continued commitment to uplifting the lives of young people in Mangwe,” Mguni said.
“This programme is not just about training; it is about restoring hope and building sustainable livelihoods.”
Phase two is expected to further strengthen pathways into employment, entrepreneurship and community development, reinforcing the role of vocational skills training in driving rural economy.
