Staff Reporter
President Mnangagwa is set to launch the Presidential Youth Fund on Thursday, a nationwide initiative aimed at financially empowering young Zimbabweans.
The fund is designed to help youths start businesses, access education and skills training, and contribute to the national economy, aligning with the Government’s vision of inclusive economic growth.
The Presidential Youth Fund follows the success of the Presidential War Veterans Fund, which provided financial support to Zimbabwe’s liberation fighters.
This latest initiative is a step towards broadening financial inclusion, ensuring that young people have access to the resources needed to build sustainable livelihoods.
In an interview with the media yesterday, special advisor to the President, Dr. Paul Tungwarara,emphasised that the programme was part of President Mnangagwa’s “leaving no one and no place behind” policy, which prioritises economic empowerment for all Zimbabweans, including women and marginalised communities.
“After the overwhelming response to the War Veterans Fund, we are now focusing on the youths. We are also rolling out a similar facility for women, ensuring that no one is left behind. This initiative will reach young people across all provinces,” said Dr Tungwarara.
The fund will operate as a revolving facility, with millions of dollars set to be distributed to young entrepreneurs and aspiring professionals, providing them with financial support to drive economic growth.
Young Zimbabweans have expressed optimism about the Presidential Youth Fund, seeing it as a game-changer in tackling unemployment and financial barriers to business growth.
Entrepreneur Torerai Munhambu from Mufakose, Harare, believes the initiative will provide much-needed capital for young people to start their own businesses.
“The Presidential Youth Fund will go a long way in helping young entrepreneurs. Many struggle to raise capital, and this initiative will allow them to turn their ideas into reality,” he said.
Cosmetic therapist, Joyce Chinenge, noted that the fund offers an opportunity to expand her business and create jobs for others.
“We are already making work suits and corporate wear for local companies. With this fund, I can buy industrial sewing machines and employ other youth in my community,” she shared.
The Presidential Youth Fund will be distributed across all 10 provinces, ensuring that young people from both urban and rural areas have equal access to financial support.
The initiative aligns with President Mnangagwa’s broader economic strategy, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to youth development and national prosperity.
