Zimbabwe Approves National Youth Empowerment Strategy 2026–2030

Cabinet has approved the National Youth Empowerment Strategy (2026–2030), a policy framework designed to integrate young people into Zimbabwe’s mainstream formal economy through job creation, entrepreneurship, and targeted development programmes.

The strategy mandates Ministries, Departments and Agencies, Local Authorities, the private sector, and development partners to launch deliberate projects that economically empower young people. It will also serve as a key tool for implementing the National Development Strategy 2 by mainstreaming youth issues into the national development agenda.

Speaking at Tuesday’s post-Cabinet briefing, Information Minister Jenfan Muswere said the strategy was developed after extensive consultations with the private sector, development partners, and youth representatives. It draws from national legal frameworks including the Constitution, the Zimbabwe Youth Council Act, and the National Youth Policy (2021). The framework targets both in-school and out-of-school youth, focusing on education, skills training, political participation, economic opportunities, recreational facilities, and protection from harmful practices.

Muswere said the plan is anchored on five main pillars: Economic Empowerment, Technology and Digital Transformation, Education and Skills Development, Governance, and Health and Wellbeing. These are supported by three cross-cutting pillars: Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation, Gender Equality and Inclusivity, and Governance, Coordination and Partnerships.

Implementation will be supported by a Monitoring and Evaluation Framework to track progress and ensure youth participation at every stage. A Communication Plan will promote public awareness, using local languages and culturally relevant messaging to reach marginalised groups.

The strategy also includes a Resource Needs and Mobilisation Plan to secure financial, human, and material resources. Special focus will be placed on supporting vulnerable and marginalised youth through targeted programmes.

Muswere added that the approach will ensure no young person is left behind in Zimbabwe’s development. The National Youth Empowerment Strategy is expected to position young people as active contributors to economic growth and social transformation over the next five years.