Young people urged to unite

Young people in Zimbabwe have been urged to rise above political differences and work together in solving the country’s economic challenges, various speakers at a recent political parties’ forum said.

The meeting, held at Entumbane Hall on 14 March, was organised by the National Youth Development Trust (NYDT) under the topic “Can ZIMASSETT bring transformation to Bulawayo industries and reduce youth unemployment?”

Fortune Mlalazi of the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) said it was encouraging that youth in Zimbabwe are now able to sit together and discuss policy issues. “We are now at a time where youth in Zimbabwe are now able to sit and discuss issues together which is commendable.

“I would like to urge young people to have a cross political agenda so that we can create a just and a fair society for ourselves,” he said.

The meeting was also attended by representatives from MDC-T, Zanu PF and ZAPU.  Hector Chikowore, the national youth spokesperson of ZAPU said, “We must do away with polarisation.  We shouldn't just differ with someone just because they are from a rival political organisation. If an idea is good, let’s support it if it’s not, let’s improve it.

“Together we can release the country from its (economic) shackles” Chikowore said.  

Kunashe Muchemwa of the MDC-T echoed the same sentiments, adding that youths should be adventurous and take initiatives. He added that if ZIMASSET does not work, then young people should work together and bring alternative solutions as a means of developing the nation.

The meeting was attended by 109 youths from Entumbane, Emakhandeni and Pumula.