Harare – President Emmerson Mnangagwa has hailed the Young Women for Economic Development (YW4ED) movement, adding that it has evolved into a “vibrant and progressive force,” with grassroots structures now established across all provinces and districts, as the organisation marked its second national convention in the capital yesterday.

Addressing over 8,500 delegates at the Harare International Conference Centre, the President said the movement’s growing impact is now reflected across the national leadership spectrum, demonstrating the significant role young women are playing in shaping the country’s socio-economic and political landscape.

The convention, held four years after the inaugural gathering in March 2022, provided a platform for young women affiliated with ZANU PF to discuss economic empowerment, business development, leadership and their contribution to national development.

Launched in August 2021 by First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa, YW4ED was established to provide a platform for young women to participate in economic development and pursue economic independence across various sectors. The organisation targets women aged 18 to 45 and operates through chapters in all ten provinces.

Founder and national chairperson, Tatenda Mavetera, who also serves as Minister of ICT, Postal and Courier Services, said the movement was motivated by the need to harness the demographic potential of young women, who constitute 52 percent of Zimbabwe’s population.

She noted that young women’s representation in leadership positions had been minimal, with fewer than 15 women under 40 in Parliament at the time of the organisation’s formation.

The movement has recorded significant political and economic impact since its inception. President Mnangagwa noted that during the 2023 Harmonised General Elections, YW4ED demonstrated its growing influence by mobilising voters, with an increased number of members elected as councillors and parliamentarians.

Minister Mavetera announced that the organisation now boasts more than 100 councillors, 12 Members of Parliament, three ministers and two deputy ministers among its membership.

On the economic front, the movement has empowered thousands of women through various initiatives.

In Bulawayo province alone, approximately 15,000 women have benefited from projects including poultry, piggery, farming, rabbit rearing and bead work. The Mukando savings programme in Mudzi District has grown from 37 participants in 2021 to 518 members, with women sharing US$262,000 in collective savings.

President Mnangagwa reaffirmed Government’s commitment to women’s empowerment, announcing the rollout of the Empowerment Fund, skills development programmes, SME and Cooperative support, as well as market access initiatives.

He challenged young women to move from small enterprises to medium and large-scale businesses, stating: “Women are called upon to increase their productivity and fully embrace the opportunities available to them. When we empower women, we empower families, communities, and ultimately, our nation”.

The convention was held under the theme: “Enhancing and Building Partnerships for Young Women Towards Vision 2030”.