The Guiding Star (2025)

03/04/2025

PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES DEMAND INCLUSIVE INFRASTRUCTURE AND TRANSPORT

Staff Reporter

Zvishavane, Runde District – At an engagement meeting organized by the Union for the Development of Apostolic Churches in Zimbabwe Africa (UDACIZA), Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) made passionate calls for better infrastructure and transport systems that accommodate their needs. Many expressed frustration over the daily struggles they face due to inaccessible buildings and transport services.

For many PWDs, moving around in public spaces is a daunting challenge. Buildings lack ramps, doorways are too narrow for wheelchairs, and public transport is often impossible to use. These barriers limit their ability to participate fully in society, from accessing healthcare to attending school and securing employment.

“We are tired of being treated as an afterthought,” said Tendai Moyo. “Many buildings, including government offices, have no ramps or elevators. We have to depend on others to carry us up staircases, which is both undignified and unsafe.”

His sentiments were echoed by Sarah Dube, a visually impaired woman who struggles with the design of most public infrastructure. “The roads are not safe for us. There are no tactile paving systems to guide visually impaired people, and many walkways are poorly maintained. We are left to navigate an environment that does not consider our needs.”

Public transportation remains another major hurdle. Many PWDs find it difficult or impossible to use buses and commuter omnibuses, as most are not designed with accessibility in mind. Steps are too high, there are no designated spaces for wheelchairs, and conductors are often unwilling to assist.

“I have missed job opportunities because I cannot travel freely,” said Blessing Ncube, a person with a physical disability. “If transport operators and the government worked together to make public transport disability-friendly, we would have greater independence and opportunities.”

PWDs at the meeting urged policymakers to ensure that infrastructure and transport systems are designed with accessibility in mind. They called for disability-friendly policies to be enforced in new building projects and for existing infrastructure to be upgraded to meet accessibility standards.

“Inclusion must be a priority, not an afterthought,” said Tendai Moyo. “We need laws that require every public building to be accessible and penalties for those who fail to comply.”

As the discussion came to a close, the urgency of the matter was clear. Without accessible infrastructure and transport, PWDs will continue to face systemic exclusion. The question remains: Will the government take the necessary steps to ensure a truly inclusive Zimbabwe for all its citizens?

03/04/2025

CALLS FOR UNIVERSAL SIGN LANGUAGE EDUCATION IN ZIMBABWE

Senior Reporter

The struggle for inclusivity and equal communication opportunities for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) was highlighted at an engagement meeting organized by the Union for the Development of Apostolic Churches in Zimbabwe Africa (UDACIZA). Among the many issues raised, one powerful suggestion stood out: the need for sign language to be taught to everyone in Zimbabwe to bridge the communication gap between the hearing and the deaf community.

Many people with hearing impairments face daily struggles in expressing themselves, as very few people know sign language. This communication barrier often leads to exclusion, making it difficult for the deaf community to participate in social, economic, and political discussions.

“We feel left out in almost every aspect of life,” said Tatenda Mlambo, a young man who is deaf. “Even when there are important discussions about our lives, we cannot contribute because very few people understand us. If everyone knew sign language, we would be able to express our views just like everyone else.”

His plea was echoed by Ruth Chikomo, another person with hearing impairment. “It is frustrating when I want to say something, but no one understands me. I am forced to depend on others to interpret for me, and sometimes they don’t say exactly what I mean.

Advocates at the meeting argued that making sign language a compulsory subject in schools could be a game-changer. If children learn sign language from a young age, future generations will be better equipped to communicate with the deaf community, promoting inclusivity in workplaces, public spaces, and governance.

“Sign language should be part of the school curriculum, just like English or Shona,” said Brian Ncube, a visually impaired activist supporting the cause. “If we can teach children different subjects, why not sign language? This is the only way we can truly break communication barriers.”

The attendees urged policymakers to take action and ensure that learning sign language becomes a national priority.

“We need government policies that make sign language education accessible to all,” said Mlambo. “This is not just for the deaf community; it is for everyone. Imagine a world where no one struggles to communicate, where we are all equal participants in conversations.”

As the meeting came to an end, one thing was clear—without widespread knowledge of sign language, the deaf community will continue to struggle with exclusion and discrimination. The question remains: Will Zimbabwe take the bold step to make communication truly inclusive for all?

03/04/2025

NEGLECTED AND ABUSED: THE STRUGGLES OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

Senior Reporter

Zvishavane, Runde District – The plight of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) took center stage at an engagement meeting organized by the Union for the Development of Apostolic Churches in Zimbabwe Africa (UDACIZA). The gathering, meant to address issues affecting PWDs, revealed shocking accounts of neglect, abuse, and the urgent need for support.

For many PWDs, access to basic hygiene products such as sanitary wear remains a challenge. Unlike their able-bodied counterparts, many women with disabilities require specialized assistance to manage their menstrual hygiene, yet their needs are rarely considered in national and community interventions.

“We are always left out,” lamented Patience Chivasa, a visually impaired woman. “When donations of sanitary pads come, they don’t think of us. Some of us cannot even afford them, and there are times we are forced to use rags, which is unhygienic and unsafe.”

Her sentiments were echoed by Rudo Moyo, a physically challenged woman who relies on a wheelchair. “Some of us need extra help with menstrual hygiene, but who is there to assist us? There is no proper training for caregivers, and sometimes we have to suffer in silence. The government and organizations must ensure sanitary wear programs include women with disabilities.”

Beyond issues of sanitary wear, PWDs at the meeting shared harrowing experiences of abuse, particularly s*xual violence. Many reported being targeted due to their vulnerability, with perpetrators taking advantage of their disabilities.

“We are not safe,” said Tendai Dlamini, a young woman with a hearing impairment. “Some of us are r***d because people think we cannot report or defend ourselves. Others are taken advantage of by caregivers or even family members.”

Even more alarming was the revelation that some PWDs who are victims of s*xual violence are giving birth to children with disabilities, whom they struggle to care for due to financial and physical constraints.

“There are men out there who think ra**ng a disabled woman will cure them of diseases,” said Farai Mutizwa, a wheelchair user. “It is painful to know that some of our sisters and daughters are abused like this. We need serious interventions, from the police to social services, to protect PWDs.”

Recognizing these challenges, local authorities emphasized the importance of creating environments where PWDs can openly discuss their issues and seek solutions.

“There is a need to keep providing safe spaces for PWDs, such as the ones being provided by UDACIZA,” said Councilor Regina Mafirenyika. “These meetings allow them to share their challenges and work towards living better lives. We need more of these platforms, coupled with action from policymakers.”

PWDs in Runde District are calling on the government and relevant stakeholders to take concrete steps to address their concerns. Their demands include:

*Inclusion of PWDs in sanitary wear distribution programs.

*Stronger legal action against those who abuse PWDs.

*More safe spaces where PWDs can share their experiences and receive support.

*Increased awareness and training for caregivers and the public on how to support PWDs.

*Provision of financial and social support for PWDs raising children with disabilities.

“We are tired of just talking,” said Dlamini. “We need real change. We need to feel safe. We need to be treated as equals.”

Her words resonated with everyone in attendance, leaving a lingering question: How much longer must PWDs wait for their voices to be heard and their rights to be upheld?

03/04/2025

CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES DENIED RIGHT TO EDUCATION

Staff Reporter

The sun blazed over the small gathering at a local engagement meeting organized by the Union for the Development of Apostolic Churches in Zimbabwe Africa (UDACIZA). Seated on the sidelines, I listened intently as voices of frustration, pain, and resilience echoed from persons with disabilities (PWDs) calling for more inclusive educational facilities for children with disabilities.

For many parents of children with disabilities, the battle begins early. Lack of proper school infrastructure, untrained teachers, and societal discrimination make access to education a far-fetched dream. One such mother, Angeline Ncube, sat down with me to share her story, her voice heavy with sorrow and frustration.

“I had no choice but to send my daughter all the way to Bulawayo for schooling,” she began, her eyes welling up. “At our local school here, she was discriminated against. Other children would laugh at her, and even teachers were dismissive. She would come home crying every day. It got to a point where she said, ‘Mama, I don’t want to go to school anymore.’ What could I do? I had to find another school, one that would at least respect her dignity.”

Ncube’s daughter, Chiedza, was born with cerebral palsy, a condition that affects muscle coordination. At the local school, there were no ramps, no special classroom settings, and worst of all, no trained teachers who understood how to handle children with disabilities.

“She could not keep up with the writing speed, and when she struggled, her teacher would just move on. No one cared to help her,” Ncube said, her voice cracking. “Imagine hearing your child say she feels unwanted in school. It broke me.”

Faced with no alternatives, Ncube made the difficult decision to enroll Chiedza at a special school in Bulawayo. The decision came at a steep cost—emotionally and financially.

“I paid so much in school fees, transport, and boarding fees. I barely make ends meet, but what else can I do? My child deserved an education, just like everyone else,” she lamented.

Angeline’s story is just one among many. Throughout the engagement meeting, similar testimonies poured in from other PWDs and their caregivers.

“We do not have disability-friendly schools here,” said Tinashe Moyo, a visually impaired activist. “Children with disabilities either have to travel long distances or stay at home. That is not fair. The government needs to build schools that cater to everyone, not just those who can walk, see, or hear properly.”

Many in attendance also emphasized the need for teacher training.

“Our teachers do not know how to handle children with disabilities,” said Nomathemba Dube, a wheelchair user and mother of two. “They need to be trained on how to accommodate and encourage these children. Right now, most of them either ignore or mistreat our children.”

Zimbabwe’s Constitution recognizes the rights of PWDs, including their right to education. Section 83 of the Constitution states:

“The State must take appropriate measures, within the limits of the resources available to it, to ensure that persons with disabilities realize their full mental and physical potential, including measures to—

(a) enable them to become self-reliant;

(b) enable them to live with their families and participate in social, creative, or recreational activities;

(c) protect them from all forms of exploitation and abuse; and

(d) give them access to medical, psychological, and functional treatment.”

Moreover, Section 75 guarantees the right to education, stating that every citizen has the right to a basic education, including adults. However, despite these legal provisions, the reality on the ground tells a different story.

“Laws mean nothing if they are not implemented,” said Moyo. “We need action, not just words.”

PWDs in Runde District are calling on the government and policymakers to prioritize inclusive education. Among their demands are:

*The construction of disability-friendly schools in rural areas.

*Training programs for teachers to better support children with disabilities.

*Provision of assistive devices such as wheelchairs, braille textbooks, and hearing aids in schools.

*Policies that ensure all children, regardless of ability, receive equal educational opportunities.

As the meeting concluded, the sense of urgency was clear.

“I do not want my child to be seen as a burden. I do not want her to be treated differently,” Ncube said. “She deserves to learn just like any other child. If we say education is a right, then let it be so for everyone.”

Her words lingered long after the gathering dispersed. The question remains: How long must children with disabilities in Zimbabwe wait before their right to education is truly realized?

23/03/2025

NEW HOTEL BOOSTS TOURISM IN REDCLIFF

Zimbabwe’s tourism sector received a significant boost with the official opening of the Zhongjin International Hotel in Redcliff, Kwekwe, on March 23, 2025. The state-of-the-art facility, which represents a $15 million investment, is expected to enhance the region’s hospitality industry, create employment, and stimulate economic growth.

Speaking at the grand opening, the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Hon. Barbara Rwodzi, praised the investment as a testament to Zimbabwe’s favorable business environment under the Second Republic. She credited President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s "Zimbabwe is Open for Business" policy for attracting investments that position the country as a prime tourism destination.

“This hotel is a game-changer, not only for the tourism industry but for our economy as a whole,” said Minister Rwodzi. “It creates jobs, stimulates the growth of value chain industries, and improves the quality of life for local communities.

Zhongjin International Hotel, the first of its kind in Midlands Province, boasts 87 rooms and a range of amenities designed to cater to both local and international visitors. The hotel features a casino, a karaoke entertainment center, a supermarket, and restaurants serving both Chinese and local cuisine. Minister Rwodzi encouraged the inclusion of traditional Zimbabwean dishes to promote gastronomy tourism and support local farmers.

“With tourism being a key pillar of our economy under the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), investments like this contribute to our vision for 2030, leaving no one and no place behind,” she added.

The hotel employs 130 staff members, including 110 locals, marking a significant employment boost for Kwekwe and surrounding areas.

The investment by Chinese businessman Mr. Yolo Cheng underscores the strong bilateral ties between Zimbabwe and China. Minister Rwodzi commended the investor’s commitment to Zimbabwe’s tourism industry and recognized the broader economic benefits of such partnerships.

“With this addition, Zhongjin Hotel will not only cater to business travelers but also provide an appealing destination for leisure seekers,” she said, highlighting the role of casinos in global tourism.

11/03/2025

JOURNALISM SCHOOLS STRUGGLING TO KEEP UP WITH AI ADOPTION

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape global industries, a new study reveals that journalism schools (J-schools) in Southern Africa are lagging in integrating AI into their curricula. The research, titled ‘Mind the Gap: Artificial Intelligence and Journalism Training in Southern African Journalism Schools’, highlights both opportunities and challenges facing journalism educators as they navigate the AI revolution.

The study, conducted across universities in Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe, finds that AI is rapidly transforming journalism but is met with cautious adoption in journalism schools. While AI is already influencing news production through automated reporting, fact-checking, and data journalism, many journalism educators are still grappling with its implications.

According to the research, resistance to AI integration stems from several factors, including a lack of clarity on AI's role in journalism, skepticism from educators, and resource constraints. Some journalism instructors express concerns over AI’s ethical implications, particularly regarding misinformation, bias, and its potential to undermine traditional journalism values.

The findings indicate that most Southern African universities have yet to fully incorporate AI into their journalism curricula. AI-related content is often added as an afterthought in existing courses, such as data journalism, rather than being the focus of standalone modules.

At institutions such as the University of Johannesburg and Walter Sisulu University, AI components are integrated into data journalism and big data courses. However, in other universities like Midlands State University in Zimbabwe and the University of Botswana, AI is only occasionally referenced in journalism training, with no formal AI courses currently available.

A notable trend is that AI integration is largely driven by individual lecturers rather than by institutional policies. Some educators have taken the initiative to incorporate AI-related discussions in their courses, often through self-learning. However, this ad-hoc approach leads to inconsistencies in AI training across different institutions.

The study outlines several key barriers preventing AI from becoming a core part of journalism education in Southern Africa:

1. Lack of Expertise: Many educators are unfamiliar with AI technology and lack training on how to incorporate it into their teaching.

2. Resource Constraints: Universities, particularly in Zimbabwe and Botswana, struggle to access AI tools due to financial limitations.

3. Ethical Concerns: Some educators fear AI could contribute to plagiarism, misinformation, and biased reporting, potentially weakening journalistic integrity.

4. Resistance to Change: There is a trust deficit among educators, with some viewing AI as a threat rather than a tool to enhance journalism.

5. Eurocentric AI Models: AI technologies are often designed with Western contexts in mind, making them less adaptable to African languages and journalism practices.

The study recommends a multi-faceted approach to AI integration in journalism education:

Develop AI-Focused Curricula: Universities should introduce dedicated AI and journalism courses to prepare students for AI-driven newsrooms.

Training for Educators: Journalism instructors need structured training to improve their understanding of AI tools and applications.

University-Led AI Policies: Institutional frameworks should be established to ensure AI integration is standardized across departments.

Ethical AI Guidelines: Clear policies should be developed to address concerns around AI bias, misinformation, and its impact on journalistic ethics.

Localized AI Solutions: African universities and media organizations should collaborate on AI technologies that cater to local languages and cultural contexts.

AI presents both challenges and opportunities for journalism education in Southern Africa. While some universities are making progress in integrating AI into their curricula, a lack of institutional support, training, and resources continues to hinder widespread adoption. The study argues that with the right policies, training, and investment, AI can enhance journalism education rather than disrupt it.

As the media landscape evolves, journalism schools must adapt to ensure future journalists are equipped with the skills needed to navigate an AI-driven industry.

Image generated by AI

04/03/2025

KWEKWE CITY APPROVED BUDGET CRITICISED FOR EXCLUDING PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

By Victor Muoni

The recently unveiled Kwekwe City Budget has come under intense scrutiny from various stakeholders, including disability rights advocates and gender activists, for its lack of inclusivity and failure to prioritize the needs of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

During a community engagement meeting organized by Community Voices Zimbabwe in Ward 1 under the Strengthening Institutions and People’s Participation in Public Finance Management (SIPPP) project, participants expressed disappointment that the budget failed to allocate funds for disability-friendly infrastructure and social welfare programs.

Disability rights activist Grace Mazambani criticized the budget for neglecting the needs of PWDs, despite their significant presence in the community.

"The budget is a clear indication that the city council is not committed to promoting the welfare and rights of PWDs. There is a need for council to adopt an inclusive planning approach that considers PWDs in all developmental projects," she said.

Echoing the same sentiments, Joyce Togarepi from the National Council of Disabled Persons of Zimbabwe (NCDPZ) lamented the widespread exclusion of PWDs in local authority budget consultations.

"It is disheartening to note that most councils fail to plan for PWDs. They are often forgotten in the budget planning process, leaving them without essential services such as accessible infrastructure, ramps, elevators, and disability-friendly public toilets," said Togarepi.

She further advocated for the introduction of housing adaptation grants to assist PWDs with home modifications, ensuring accessibility and safety. Additionally, she recommended that councils adopt council tax reduction schemes by offering discounts or exemptions on rates for persons with disabilities facing economic hardship.

The lack of inclusivity in the Kwekwe City Budget contravenes Section 22 of the Zimbabwean Constitution, which mandates the State and all institutions to consider PWDs in all developmental plans and promote their welfare. Moreover, Section 83 guarantees PWDs the right to access public facilities, social services, and assistive devices, obligating local authorities to make deliberate provisions for their needs.

On the international front, the exclusion of PWDs undermines Zimbabwe’s commitment to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), which calls for the full and equal participation of PWDs in society. The convention emphasizes that governments must ensure accessibility, provide reasonable accommodation, and involve PWDs in decision-making processes, particularly in budget planning and resource allocation.

The failure to adopt disability-sensitive budgeting not only violates constitutional and international frameworks but also exacerbates the social and economic marginalization of PWDs. Experts recommend that city councils embrace participatory budgeting models where PWDs are actively consulted in the design and implementation of local budgets.

By mainstreaming disability issues into municipal budgets, local authorities can foster inclusive development that leaves no one behind, in line with Sustainable Development Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities) and Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

As the pressure mounts, disability rights advocates urge Kwekwe City Council to revise the budget and adopt a disability-sensitive budgeting framework that guarantees equal access to services and infrastructure for all residents.

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04/03/2025

STI CASES SURGE BY 21% IN KWEKWE: CALLS FOR SAFER SEXUAL PRACTICES AND CONDOM ACCESS

Staff Reporter

The Kwekwe City Health Department has reported a disturbing surge in s*xually transmitted infections (STIs), with cases increasing by 21.4% between December 2024 and January 2025, raising alarm among health officials.

Speaking during a full council meeting, Kwekwe Director of Health revealed that 306 STI cases were recorded in January, up from 252 cases in December 2024. This spike comes amid a 76% decline in male condom uptake, with 10,897 condoms distributed in January compared to 46,200 in December.

Health experts have attributed the sharp rise to several factors, including limited access to condoms, lack of comprehensive s*xual health education, and risky s*xual behaviors, particularly among young people.

Priscilla Mashinge, the Midlands Chairperson for Zimbabwe Human Rights Association (ZimRights) and health expert, emphasized the urgent need for intervention.

"We are extremely concerned about the increasing number of STIs in Kwekwe. There is a pressing need to invest more in healthcare services to ensure residents have access to quality care and treatment. Young people, in particular, require monitoring, capacity building, and continuous s*xual and reproductive health education to help them make informed decisions," she said.

Recent STI statistics in Zimbabwe indicate that young people aged 15-24 are the most vulnerable group due to inadequate information on safe s*x practices and limited access to s*xual health services. This trend highlights the importance of integrating Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) into community health programs.

The Zimbabwean Constitution, Section 76, guarantees the right to healthcare services, including reproductive health care. Furthermore, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being) urges nations to combat STIs through education, prevention, and universal access to s*xual health services.

Health officials encourage the community to practice safe s*x by consistently and correctly using condoms, attending regular health check-ups, and seeking immediate treatment for any STI symptoms.

As Kwekwe grapples with this public health challenge, a collaborative effort between health authorities, community organizations, and residents is critical in curbing the spread of STIs and safeguarding the well-being of the community.

04/03/2025

AMAVENI PATIENTS ON ARVS AND TB TREATMENT CRY OUT FOR PRIVACY

By Partinella Ngozo

Patients in Amaveni, Kwekwe, receiving Antiretroviral (ARV) medication and Tuberculosis (TB) treatment have raised concerns over the lack of privacy during the collection of life-saving medication, exposing them to stigma and discrimination.

Speaking during a meeting organized by Community Voices Zimbabwe under the Strengthening Institutions and People’s Participation in Public Finance Management (SIPPP) project, a youth living with HIV, Betty (not her real name), expressed frustration at the public nature of the process.

"As a youth, it's really frustrating when people start whispering, pointing fingers, or even laughing while I'm on the road. I just make assumptions that they are talking about me — to me, it's humiliating," she said.

Betty highlighted that fear of stigma is driving many young people to default on treatment.

"Most youths I know suffer in silence, often skipping treatment to avoid the stigma associated with collecting medicine in an open space," she added.

Health workers echoed these sentiments, emphasising that the lack of privacy for patients.

"We call on relevant authorities in council to urgently prioritize the construction of a durawall to ensure privacy for our clients," said one health worker.

Kwekwe City Health Director Dr. Murwira, during a full council meeting, revealed that 43 people tested HIV positive out of 1,368 tested in January 2025, representing a 3.1% positivity rate, down from 4.4% in December 2024.

The lack of privacy contravenes Section 57 of the Zimbabwean Constitution, which guarantees the right to privacy, including medical information. Additionally, Section 76 enshrines the right to access healthcare services, which must be delivered with dignity and respect.

On a global scale, the situation aligns with the United Nations Political Declaration on HIV and AIDS (2021), which calls for the elimination of HIV-related stigma and discrimination as a critical step toward ending the epidemic. The UNAIDS Global AIDS Strategy 2021-2026 further highlights the need for people-centered healthcare systems that uphold human rights and prioritize privacy.

Without urgent intervention, the ongoing breach of privacy risks undermining treatment adherence, potentially reversing the gains made in the fight against HIV and TB in Amaveni.

28/02/2025

A BLEAK FUTURE: THE STRUGGLES OF ZIMBABWEAN YOUTHS IN THE MINES OF KWEKWE

As the sun rises over the dusty plains of Kwekwe, the rhythmic clang of metal against rock echoes through the air. The smell of wet earth and sweat fills the atmosphere as groups of young men navigate the difficult pits in the gold mines. Their faces glisten under the scorching sun, a mixture of perspiration and hope. Some crack jokes, trying to lighten the heavy burden of a job that has become their only means of survival. But behind the laughter is a grim reality — a future uncertain and dreams deferred.

For many youths in Kwekwe, gold panning is not a choice but a necessity. The crumbling Zimbabwean economy has pushed many out of classrooms and into the dangerous shafts of illegal mining. Among them is Tafadzwa (not his real name), a 26-year-old university graduate who never imagined he'd spend his days searching for gold.

"I graduated last year with a degree in accounting, but after five months of sitting at home without a job, I had no option but to come here," Tafadzwa says, his hands caked with mud. "Ndine vapfana vaviri, umwe ari Grade 6 umwe Form 4. Baba vakashaya ndichiri kuchikoro, Mai vakashaya mwedzi wapfuura...handikwanise kugara ndisina zvekuita."

His story is not unique. The streets of Kwekwe are lined with youth whose dreams were cut short by the harsh economic crisis. Some left school before completing their education, while others, like Tafadzwa, have certificates gathering dust at home. The informal sector has become their last hope, even as it exploits their labour.

"Tinoshanda tigowana 1kg asi ipapo isu mari yatinowana ishomasa, asi vakuru vedu vanenge vatora hobho," one youth remarks, his voice heavy with frustration. "Zvakawoma...todiii? Kumba hakuna chekubata."

The lyrics of Leonard Zhakata's "Hupenyu Mutoro" echoes some of life's struggles. Life has become a burden for these young men — a journey with no clear destination.

The International Labour Organization estimates that Zimbabwe's youth unemployment rate hovers around 25%, but the real figure could be much higher. Many have been forced into the informal sector, where they work without contracts, protection, or fair wages. Those who turn to gold panning face the constant threat of mine collapses, police raids, and violence from rival syndicates.

For a country once known as the breadbasket of Africa, the sight of educated youths toiling in gold pits paints a stark picture of broken dreams.

However, the youth of Zimbabwe cannot be written off as a lost generation. Solutions exist to pull them out of the pit — literally and figuratively.

1. Skills Development and Entrepreneurship Training: Government and private organizations need to invest in vocational training centres where youth can learn practical skills like carpentry, welding, and agribusiness.

2. Youth Empowerment Funds: Establishment of transparent and accessible youth empowerment funds to help young people start small businesses.

3. Public-Private Partnerships: Companies operating in mining areas should be mandated to set aside resources for youth training and employment programs.

4. Counselling and Mentorship Programs: Many young people need guidance on how to navigate life challenges and set goals.

5. Inclusion in National Budget Consultations: Youth voices must be heard when budgets are crafted to ensure that resources are allocated to job creation programs.

As Leonard Zhakata sang, "Tipeiwo mugove wedu tichiri kurarama" in one of his songs "Mugove", the youth needs their share while still alive. The youth of Zimbabwe are not asking for handouts — they are asking for opportunities. They are asking for their fair share.

Until the day those opportunities come, Tafadzwa and thousands like him will continue sweating in the mines, hoping that one day their hard work will yield more than just gold dust — it will yield a brighter future.

Image made through AI
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