PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has implored young people to use their skills and talents to accelerate Zimbabwe’s economic growth, saying they are the torch-bearers and vanguard of the country’s hard-won independence.
Addressing thousands of youths during the National Youth Day celebrations at Lupane State University (LSU) campus in Matabeleland North on Tuesday, President Mnangagwa also challenged youth to collectively remember and honour the sacrifices made by young people of yester-year who took up arms against repressive colonial regime.
A revolutionary reformist, the President is one of the stalwarts of the liberation struggle, who dedicated their lives to the emancipation of the Zimbabwean people from a tender age.
“Today, we once again dedicate this special day to you our young people who are the torch-bearers, the future and vanguard of our country’s hard-won independence. While the youth of yesterday took up arms, today you must use our skills and talents to accelerate the growth of the economy,” said President Mnangagwa.
“The baton stick is now in your hands. Like the youth that fought for independence, you the youth of today, must work harder for your own victory, a victory of development and prosperity of Zimbabwe we all want.”
The President reminded the youth that no matter the circumstances the country may face, they should always bear in mind that Zimbabwe is their only home.
“No one will build our country for us. It is a responsibility that we, Zimbabweans must bear. Ilizwe lakhiwa, libuswa ngabaninilo/nyika inovakwa, inotongwa nevene vayo. We must build it brick by brick, stone upon stone,” he said.
President Mnangagwa said his administration remains committed to playing its part to facilitating a higher quality of life and a brighter and more prosperous future for the youth.
“Under the Second Republic, we will continue to avail opportunities for you the youth to realise your full potential. The devolution and decentralisation policy is ensuring that young people have access to quality social services such as education and health facilities,” he said.
President Mnangagwa said the country’s colonial history must never be forgotten.
“Our country’s colonial history must never be forgotten. The rich heritage bequeathed to us by our founding fathers must be persevered and promoted,” he said.
Robert Gabriel Mugabe National Youth Day is celebrated every year on February 21 to recognise youth and to reflect on their contributions to socio-economic development and encourage them to adopt sound leadership values by emulating the ethos espoused by national liberators since independence. – The Chronicle
