By Kelvin Wilson Kasiwulaya
As Zimbabwe marks National Youth Day, the Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN) has issued a resounding call for a renewed focus on youth empowerment, urging stakeholders to involve young people more actively in shaping the country’s governance.
This year’s theme, “Empower Youth, Secure the Future,” encapsulates the growing need for youth to play an integral role in decisions that directly impact their lives.
In a statement issued on February 21, ZESN emphasized that National Youth Day is not only a time for celebration, but an opportunity to acknowledge youth as both present-day leaders and agents of change.
“The youth represent not only the future but also the present; they are leaders and innovators who can shape a better tomorrow,” the organization said. “Their perspectives bring unique insights into the challenges faced today, enabling everyone to navigate complex global issues such as climate change, social justice, and economic instability.”
ZESN called on all sectors—government, civil society, and the private sector—to recognize and include youth as equal partners in governance. One key aspect of the group’s advocacy is the introduction of the Youth Quota, a proposal to reserve a minimum percentage of leadership roles for young people.
ZESN views this initiative as an essential step toward dismantling barriers that have historically excluded youth from governance. “By integrating youth into governance, a responsive and inclusive political environment that reflects the aspirations and needs of all citizens is cultivated,” the statement added.
Further strengthening its call, ZESN highlighted the National Youth Policy, which mandates that at least 21% of governance roles be filled by young individuals.
The organization called on the government to move beyond tokenism and ensure that youth are meaningfully engaged in shaping policies.
“ZESN calls on the government to actively engage the youth in democratic processes, equip them with the tools, experiences, and confidence to influence change and build resilient communities,” the statement concluded.
ZESN emphasized that true empowerment requires not only representation, but opportunities for youth to take the lead in addressing societal issues.
The organization argued that when young people are involved in governance, they bring fresh perspectives, energy, and a deep commitment to improving their communities.
This engagement, ZESN believes, strengthens democracy and builds a generation of informed citizens ready to tackle future challenges.
As National Youth Day serves as a reminder of youth’s vital role in nation-building, ZESN called for collective action to break down barriers and invest in the potential of Zimbabwe’s youth. “It is time to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and invest in the potential of the Zimbabwean youth where every young person feels valued,” the organization stated.
With more than 60% of Zimbabwe’s population under 35, ZESN’s message resonates strongly within a demographic poised to drive the country’s innovation and social progress.
National Youth Day, established in 2017 to honor the contributions of young people in Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle, remains a potent reminder of the power and promise of the nation’s youth.