By Newton Mambande
HARARE – AS we commemorated National Youth Day on February 21, 2026, it is important to acknowledge both the potential and the challenges facing our young people. With over 46% of the population under the age of 35, Zimbabwe’s youth are poised to be the primary drivers of economic growth and development. However, many face significant hurdles in key areas such as employment, business entrepreneurship, and long-term financial planning.
The Government has set ambitious national targets, including a goal to reduce the proportion of youth classified as “not in employment, education, or training” (NEET) from 49.2% to 15%. Achieving this will require confronting a major obstacle: limited access to finance. Financial institutions are often hesitant to lend to young entrepreneurs, citing a lack of collateral or formal business experience as primary reasons.
The Rise of Youth Entrepreneurship
The National Youth Empowerment Strategy (2026-2030) represents a positive step forward. The Government has allocated ZiG1.7 billion to support various youth empowerment initiatives, including entrepreneurship programs and mental health services. This funding is a crucial investment, but further support is needed to maximize its impact.
Youth-led businesses have significant potential to contribute to community development by addressing local issues such as waste management and urban farming. However, progress can be slowed by regulatory bottlenecks and bureaucratic processes. Streamlining business registration and introducing tax breaks for startups could further incentivize youth entrepreneurship.
Retirement Planning: A Forgotten Frontier
Retirement planning is often overlooked, even among those who are currently employed. In a challenging economic environment, many young people are uncertain about their financial future. Expanding access to financial literacy programs and creating more flexible, accessible pension schemes are essential steps to help secure long-term financial stability for the younger generation.
The Way Forward
To effectively empower Zimbabwe’s youth, a multi-faceted approach is needed. Key areas for action include:
- Improving Access to Finance: Government-backed youth venture funds and digital crowdfunding platforms can provide much-needed start-up capital.
- Fostering Entrepreneurship: Establishing innovation hubs, expanding mentorship programs, and offering tax incentives can help nurture and sustain young entrepreneurs.
- Prioritizing Financial Literacy: Integrating financial education into school curricula and promoting accessible pension schemes can equip young people with the tools for lifelong financial wellness.
The time for action is now. By working together across sectors, we can help unlock the immense potential of Zimbabwe’s youth and build a more prosperous future for all.
About the Author
Newton Mambande is an entrepreneur and researcher whose work has been published in scientific journals. He can be reached via email at newtonmunod@gmail.com or by call/WhatsApp at +263773411103.
Discover more from Etimes
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.