Zambia and Zimbabwe Strengthen Ties Through Youth Empowerment Dialogue
Zambia’s Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts, Honourable Elvis C. Nkandu, MP, paid a courtesy call on Honourable Tino Machakaire, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training. The meeting, held in Harare, was attended by the Zambian Ambassador to Zimbabwe, His Excellency Mr. Derick Livune, and Mr. Wu Ming, Chairman of the Zambia-Chinese Association.
At the heart of the discussions were youth empowerment, skills development, and voluntary national service issues that both nations see as vital for sustainable national development and long-term stability.
Speaking during the meeting, Hon. Machakaire applauded Zambia’s progressive youth policies under President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration, particularly the reintroduction of voluntary national service.
“The reintroduction of national service is a step in the right direction. It is through such initiatives that our young people are empowered to become self-reliant, productive, and patriotic citizens,” Hon. Machakaire said.
He noted that Zimbabwe shares similar goals in equipping its youth with practical skills and fostering civic responsibility, and expressed optimism that the two nations could collaborate more closely on youth programming. He also addressed recent misinformation circulating online, urging citizens to ignore divisive claims.
“The relationship between our two nations remains firm and should not be shaken by unfounded claims,” he emphasized.
In his remarks, Hon. Nkandu stressed that Zambia’s approach to youth development is anchored in preparing young people not just for the future, but for meaningful participation in national development today.
“Our goal is to ensure that the youth are not only prepared for the future but are also active contributors to national development today,” Hon. Nkandu said. “The voluntary national service programme is designed to instill values, build capacity, and promote self-reliance.”
The two ministers agreed that youth empowerment is an urgent priority, warning that failure to invest in young people could lead to a critical deficit in skills and leadership in both countries.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to deepen collaboration through joint programs, exchange visits, and policy dialogue that benefit the youth of both nations.
This renewed engagement signals a growing recognition across the region that the empowerment of Africa’s youthful population is not only a development goal but also a strategic imperative for lasting peace and prosperity.