Joseph Madzimure, Zimpapers Politics Hub PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has implored youths to embrace the values that sustain successful businesses and economic growth, discipline, integrity, innovation, adaptability and resilience. The remarks follow the recent launch of the Youth Empowerment Scheme that provides youths access to funding mining and farming equipment. The initiative seeks to support young entrepreneurs and farmers so they help drive economic growth and development. Speaking at the Zanu-PF Youth League National Assembly in Harare yesterday, President Mnangagwa, who is also the party’s First Secretary, called on youths to embrace a culture of hard honest work in their operations. “There are no shortcuts in business. Understand the process, create lasting brands and remain accountable to the business structures you establish,” he said. “Be willing to learn every day. Shun dishonesty, shun corruption; there are no quick wins and no easy money. Be creators of wealth not mere consumers of wealth.” President Mnangagwa said empowerment must cascade to the grassroots as it is defined by the mass character of Zanu-PF. “As the youth of today, heed the moral lessons of our wartime songs, such as Nzira Dzemasoja. “In all your business endeavours, do not exploit. Do not engage in acts that denigrate the party. Eat what you have worked for. “Serve the people, do not expect the people to serve you,” he emphasised. The President said he launched the Presidential Youth Empowerment Scheme as a strategic investment to ensure the full participation of young people in the productive sectors of the economy. He said the provision of construction vehicles, tipper trucks and front-end loaders, plays a critical role in economic growth. “In identifying beneficiaries, we must leave no one and no place behind. Going forward, it is critical to measure and monitor the success of our programmes and projects. The future of Zimbabwe depends on your focus, your mindset and your respect for our national ethos. “Cde Josiah Magama Tongogara was our commander and he left us good commanders to carry the torch forward,” he said. The Youth League executive members have the duty and obligation to move forward the revolution, which brought respect and dignity to black people in their mother country, explained President Mnangagwa. He said that the people must never allow their country to be ruled by foreign forces or hostile elements. “Our party, Zapu-PF is colossal and it remains strong because its grassroots are strong and ideologically sound and that strength comes from you, the youth leadership,’’ he said. Youth League executive members were challenged to set concrete targets for growth in every province and district, and to measure progress consistently. “Zapu-PF is a people-centred party. As we move forward, our structures must evolve to match the growing sophistication of our youth without compromising the ideology of the party. “As we modernise, industrialise and grow our economy, the values of our liberation struggle must never be lost. “They are the foundation upon which we build our institutions and transform our nation,” said President Mnangagwa. Later this year, a National Youth Symposium will be held between Government and youths to shape the minds of young people. President Mnangagwa said at that symposium, young people shall be trained in ideology and be exposed to revolutionary leadership. “Let us remember; unity, discipline, patriotism and loyalty are the cornerstones of any revolutionary party. “Tribalism and regionalism will never be tolerated,” he stated. Zapu-PF will continue to avail agricultural and mining equity to youths, ensuring productivity and sustainable income generation. President Mnangagwa implored youths to preserve the country’s rich legacy, defend and carry forward the blood, sweat and sacrifice made by the sons and daughters of Zimbabwe during the liberation struggle. The Youth League National Assembly was held after the 45th Heroes and Defence Forces commemorations early this week. The meeting was convened in line with the provisions of Article 26 of the party Constitution, which mandates the Youth League Assembly to meet twice per year. It is the highest gathering of the Youth League where they formulate and review initiatives. President Mnangagwa challenged the Youth League executive members to take these meetings seriously to chart a progressive course for the youth. “The future of our country is on your shoulders. This Assembly must sharpen your ideological strength and equip you with strategies to energise and develop our motherland. “I commend you the youth and leadership of our party for your unwavering patriotism towards our Government and our country. “As you reflect on the journey we have travelled, I urge you to ensure your policies, initiatives and programmes remain grounded in the practical needs of the people, shaped by the national interest and not personal gain,” emphasised President Mnangagwa. In his remarks, Vice-President Dr Constantino Chiwenga urged youths to focus on innovation and national development, as the party is at a critical juncture to deliver on its national goals. He noted that the National Youth Assembly gathering took place at a crucial moment, when the party had embarked on a transformative journey to achieve its national development goals. “Under his visionary leadership, President Mnangagwa has ensured the party remains focused and united despite efforts by detractors to sow division,” said VP Chiwenga. “Today you are like what we were, and one day you will be what we are. The task before the youth of today is to concentrate on innovation and national development, guided by President Mnangagwa, as we march towards ensuring an upper-middle-income economy,” he said. Zapu-PF Secretary for Youth Affairs, Cde Tino Machakaire hailed President Mnangagwa for championing empowerment programmes for the youth. “Your leadership continues to be a guiding light to uplift our livelihoods. Your support towards youth empowerment projects is practical. “We have already embarked on the journey to empower the youth through your initiatives,” he said. Cde Machakaire highlighted that empowerment initiatives such as the Farm Mechanisation Programme and mining mechanisation programmes were already bearing fruit. He commended President Mnangagwa for making National Youth Service programmes available across the country. “We are appealing to your Government offices to open employment opportunities in Government ministries,” said Cde Machakaire. The Youth League National Assembly was also attended by Vice President Kembo Mohadi, Zapu-PF National Chairman Cde Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, Zanu-PF Secretary for Women’s Affairs Cde Mabel Chinomona, the party’s Political Commissar Cde Munyaradzi Machacha and Deputy Secretary for Security Cde Tendai Chirau. It was held under the theme, “Fuel Youth: Ignite the Future”, inspired by the countless empowerment programmes, policies and platforms that have created real opportunities for young people. Meanwhile, a minute of silence was observed in honour of the late national hero, Cde Victor Panganai Kuretu, who was buried at the National Heroes Acre yesterday.