Youth MPs should champion Youth Bill

THE Zimbabwe Parliamentary Youths Caucus should champion the development of the Youth Bill to have an all-encompassing legislation that addresses all sectors and areas that affects youths and align it to the Constitution.

The caucus chairperson, Cde Stanley Sakupwanya, said the Bill will provide a legal framework to ensure accountability in the implementation of youth policies and initiatives.

The caucus brings together all young legislators in Parliament with the sole goal of addressing issues of mutual concern to youths.

“The Bill was already outlined by President Mnangagwa in the 2023 State of the Nation Address (Sona) as one of the crucial bills that Parliament should expedite.

“As members of the Parliamentary Youth Caucus, our role in advocacy and lobbying necessitates a thorough understanding of parliamentary procedures, communication strategies and media engagement.

“It is through these avenues that we can influence policies and laws that empower youths, hence the need for us to champion the development of this Bill,” he said.

Cde Sakupwanya, who is also Zanu PF Manicaland provincial youth chairman, said it is crucial that young people’s voice is heard and reflected in legislation to address critical issues like education, unemployment and climate change.

“At the heart of democracy lies the fundamental principle that Parliament should be a reflection of society in its entirety, and should represent the aspirations and best interests of all citizens. It is in recognition of this principle that a caucus was established, to serve as the resounding voice of youths in Parliament,” he said.

He was addressing delegates during a Parliamentary Youth Caucus induction held in Mutare, whose objective was to arm youthful parliamentarians with the necessary information, skills and knowledge to effectively carry out their key functions, both as individuals and within committees.

The induction training workshop was facilitated by Zimbabwe Youth Council and Hivos.

Cde Sakupwanya said their functions encompass representation, oversight and the crafting of legislation.

“Working together across political affiliation, with Government ministries, civil society organisations and the private sector is instrumental in achieving our goals,” he said.

Hivos programme manager, Ms Tambudzai Madzimure encouraged parliamentarians to increase their media engagement and work together to ensure transparency in their work ethic.

She highlighted the pivotal role of media in fostering accountability and citizen participation within the parliamentary processes.

“Youth representatives should actively utilise various platforms made available to amplify their voices, share their initiatives, and solicit feedback from constituents. By leveraging the power of such platforms like the media, youth leaders can effectively communicate their priorities, engage with diverse stakeholders, and hold themselves accountable to the public,” she said.