President Emmerson Mnangagwa officially opened the 34th Session of the Junior Parliament of Zimbabwe at the New Parliament Building today.
He challenged young people to lead practical solutions on water, sanitation, hygiene and national development.
The session was held under the theme “Ensuring Universal Access to Water, Sanitation and Hygiene for every Child in Africa.”
It formed part of belated commemorations of the Day of the African Child marked annually on 16 June.
Addressing the Junior Parliamentarians, President Mnangagwa said the gathering reflected the Second Republic’s commitment to the country’s liberation heritage.
“Today, we can chart our own path. We are masters of our destiny,” he said.
“I challenge the children and young people of Zimbabwe to remain mindful that independence never came on a silver platter. Love your country and honour the heroes and heroines who brought about this freedom.”
He urged youth to “work hard, chase your dreams and reject activities which undermine your future.”
Child President Tinashe Mugodhi called the theme a timely call to action.
He said every learner deserves to learn in a clean and healthy environment.
“As junior parliamentarians, we must champion practical solutions that ensure schools have safe water and inclusive sanitation,” Mugodhi said.
He also thanked the President for assenting to Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3.
He described it as “a progressive step towards the empowerment of young people.”
Water challenges were raised during debate.
The MP for Gokwe South said her constituency relies on one rusty borehole at Gukure School, causing preventable waterborne diseases.
Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Hon. T. Moyo said 75% of schools have clean water.
He added that through the Presidential drilling scheme, the remaining 25% will be covered before year-end.
Minister of Health and Child Care Dr. Douglas Mombeshora said sanitary products were being distributed to schools.
He pledged to increase the budget for sanitary care.
Other ministers made pledges to the Junior Parliament.
Prof. M. Ncube said government will upgrade ICT equipment.
Hon. J. Muswere said every participant will receive gadgets to improve connectivity.
Hon. T. Machakaire reiterated commitment to youth empowerment and vocational training.
Hon. Ziyambi Ziyambi commended the Junior Parliament for mirroring the Senior Parliament.
President Mnangagwa capped the proceedings by handing over Starlink kits and tablets to participants.
Established in 1991, the Junior Parliament mirrors national government.
It focuses on children’s rights, education and substance abuse prevention.
Join our WhatsApp Channel
Be part of a growing community that relies on Dagmedia News for fast, accurate, and credible updates from across Zimbabwe and beyond.
We also offer: Graphic Design, Photography, Web Design, Videography, Concept Development, Idea Generation & Incubation, and Advertising Services.
©️ www.dagmedia.co.zw 2026
Click here to subscribe: Follow us on WhatsApp
Comments (0)
Join the conversation
Sign in with Google to comment and like articles
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!