By Staff Reporter
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has called on African youth to remain vigilant, patriotic, and committed to the prosperity of their nations.
Speaking on National Youth Day, he urged young people to defend the integrity and dignity of their countries, their leadership, and their fellow citizens.
"Stay vigilant and patriotic at all times. Defend the integrity and dignity of our country, leadership, as well as its people. Stand firm, inculcate a culture of volunteerism and service among all the young people in our beloved motherland, Zimbabwe," he said.
President Mnangagwa extended his message beyond Zimbabwe, urging young people across the African continent to remain united and support the African cause. He emphasized the importance of solidarity in strengthening the region and fostering peaceful co-existence.
"I extend a special welcome to you, our young people as well as delegates from other countries. Your presence here is a testament to the unity and solidarity that define us, the SADC region, and indeed the continent of Africa. I urge you, our young people, to guard jealously this long-standing tradition of unity, solidarity, and peaceful co-existence," he stated.
He also encouraged the youth to actively engage in knowledge-sharing and learning from one another to improve their communities and drive development.
"The current development era equally demands that you constantly learn from each other, sharing knowledge and experiences for the betterment of your respective communities and countries. None but yourselves has that responsibility," he said.
Highlighting the crucial role of the younger generation in shaping the future of Africa, President Mnangagwa reminded them of their responsibility to build on the foundation laid by previous generations.
"The prosperity and future of our region and Africa are in your hands. We, the older generation, played our part to bring about independence, freedom, and peace. The ball is now in your court. You must deliver. In unity, the youth of Africa can do more for the realization of the Africa we want and deserve."
He also reaffirmed the Government's commitment to supporting youth development, ensuring that their energy and potential are harnessed towards achieving the country’s Vision 2030.
"This National Youth Day is set aside and dedicated to recognizing the potential of you, the young people of our country. We, your leaders, believe in your potential and will continue to ensure that your zeal and energy are harnessed so that you accomplish your dreams and aspirations and, ultimately, our national Vision 2030."
President Mnangagwa’s remarks come as a clarion call to young people across Africa to take charge of their future, unite for progress, and work towards the collective goal of a prosperous and self-reliant continent.
