By Takunda Chimwaka

Youths have applauded the Government for allocating a budget for youth development in the 2020 National Budget, Harare post reports.

Speaking at the launch of the 4-H Zimbabwe Foundation Official Document this Friday, Zanu PF National Youth League Chairperson, Lewis Matutu noted that the Government was making tremendous efforts in empowering youths to be actively involved in development initiatives.

“Youths are benefiting from the Command Agriculture and the Presidential Input Scheme. Agriculture is the backbone of our economy hence youths should be actively involved.

“I call upon youths in universities to champion innovations in agriculture through research to increase our production,” said Matutu.

Speaking at the same occasion, Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Water and Rural Settlement Director for Youth Development, Elias Chirunda indicated that the role played by youths in the country should not be undermined.

“Government is still committed to support youth programmes for them to drive our economy. The Second Republic is also determined to empower all youths in agriculture to ensure food security and attain vision 2030,” said Chirunda.

In an interview with 4-H Zimbabwe Foundation Director, John Muchenje revealed to this publication that his organisation will be working on equipping youths interested in agriculture with skills of farming and strategic planning.

Muchenje applauded the Government for initiating the Presidential Input Scheme which he said would assist youth to access agricultural inputs.

4-H Zimbabwe Foundation is a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) which focuses on promoting Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), equipping young farmers with skills and knowledge for farming to ensure food security, carrier guidance and youth development support programmes.