Online Reporter
Mukudzei Chingwere
ACTING PRESIDENT Dr Constantino Chiwenga has reiterated the Government’s commitment to creating an environment where young people can thrive in business and entrepreneurial ventures.
He made the remarks yesterday at St Canisius Roman Catholic Church Parish in Marlborough, Harare, where he officiated at the Catholic Youth Business and Innovation Hub Exhibition and Fundraising Dinner.
The Acting President toured exhibition stands to understand the innovative businesses run by youths and explore ways the Government can support them to contribute meaningfully to the economy.
He was accompanied by his wife Colonel Miniyothabo Chiwenga, Minister of State for Harare Metropolitan Province Charles Tavengwa and other senior Government officials.
In his address, Dr Chiwenga urged the youth to conduct their businesses with integrity and transparency and avoid shortcuts and criminal activities.
He said such initiatives align with President Mnangagwa’s vision of placing youth at the centre of social and economic transformation, driven by science, technology and innovation.
“The Government is fully committed to creating an environment where the youth can thrive through providing the necessary resources, training and mentorship that will help you take your initiatives to greater heights,” he said.
“As we walk through this exhibition, we see not only products and services but also hope, dreams and the potential for greatness.
“Let us invest in these visions, for they represent the seeds of our collective future.
“Let this exhibition be a symbol of how we can support each other through mentorship and partnership.
“I am pleased to see that this business hub serves as a platform for young people to showcase their businesses and entrepreneurial skills, while also seeking mentorship and support. Today’s gathering is a positive sign that our youth are focused, motivated and determined to improve their livelihoods as well as contribute to national development.”
Dr Chiwenga noted that in the 2025 National Budget, over ZiG1,02 billion was allocated to the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training to support youth programmes and projects.
He encouraged young people to be resilient and courageous in seizing opportunities while cautioning against drug and substance abuse.
“Starting a business or embarking on an innovative project demands both resilience and determination,” he added.
“When our youth are engaged in business and entrepreneurship, we significantly reduce societal evils such as crime, drug abuse and substance abuse.
“Drug and substance abuse can have profound and far-reaching effects on individuals and the society at large. They cause chronic diseases and can lead to mental disorders.”
The Archdiocese of Harare’s youth and vocations spiritual director, Father Ignatius Mhepo, reaffirmed the church’s commitment to moulding young people into future leaders.
One of the participants, Miss Tatenda Kunjeku, said: “We greatly appreciate the support we are getting from Government in helping us grow our business ventures. Government is really committed to see youths doing well, evidenced by the presence of the Acting President here. On our part, we promise to be disciplined and do honest work for the benefit of our country.”
