Staff Reporter
The recently announced Presidential Youth Fund, introduced by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, has been met with widespread enthusiasm among young Zimbabweans, who view it as a significant initiative to support youth entrepreneurship and economic participation.
The fund, which will be implemented through Dr. Paul Tungwarara, the special advisor on investments to the President, aims to provide financial assistance to young entrepreneurs, support skills development, and expand educational opportunities.
This initiative follows the successful Presidential War Veterans Fund, which is set to significantly improve the welfare of Zimbabwe’s liberation war heroes.
Young people from across the country have welcomed the fund, expressing optimism that it will help them grow their talents, establish businesses, and reduce unemployment.
"I see this as a golden opportunity. The President is inspiring us to believe in ourselves, to realise that with our own talents, we can build our nation brick by brick, stone by stone," said Regis Muda, a Midlands-based fashion designer.
Similarly, aspiring entrepreneur and recent university graduate Chipo Ndlovu from Bulawayo commended the initiative, emphasising its potential to empower young people.
"Many young people have great ideas but lack financial support. If this fund is managed well, it will help us launch businesses and contribute to the economy," she said.
Government has assured that the funds will be distributed across all provinces to ensure equal access.
However, youth leaders and community organisations have stressed the importance of transparency and accountability in the disbursement process.
"Government needs to make sure this fund is accessible to all young people, not just a select few. We have seen such programs before, but what matters is implementation. If done right, this could be a game-changer," noted one youth leader from Mashonaland West Province.
The Presidential Youth Fund forms part of broader efforts by the Government to empower young people and promote inclusive economic growth.
Moreover, with Zimbabwe’s high youth unemployment rate, the fund is widely seen as a crucial step toward providing young people with the resources needed to establish sustainable livelihoods.
