4-H Zimbabwe has launched the National Youth Council for Peace and Development (YCPD) at Holiday Inn, Bulawayo.
The YCPD is a dynamic coalition comprising the youth wings of 11 political parties in Zimbabwe. This unprecedented, unique and novel platform brings together diverse political ideologies under a shared commitment to peace, national development, leadership, inclusion and unity. By focusing on peacebuilding, dialogue, leadership and national development of Zimbabwe, the YCPD aims to cultivate a generation of youth leaders dedicated to the sustainable development and peaceful future of Zimbabwe. It is anchored on non-violent means to conflict matters in Zimbabwe.
The event was graced by the presence of the Attorney General Mrs Virginia Mabiza ( represented by the Executive Secretary Mr Johane Gandiwa), the National Peace Maker, Father Fidelis Mukonori and Former National Peace and Reconciliation Commissioner Dr Tinashe Rukuni. The three applauded the efforts made by 4-H Zimbabwe in making sure there is sustainable peace amongst the youth in the country.
“Peace is a necessity. It will always be crucial for young people to take leading roles in that. We are forever grateful to organisations like 4-H Zimbabwe Foundation for establishing platforms that ensure you have the necessary and relevant skills to become peace-building champions,” said father Fidelis Mukonori.
The Youth Council for Peace and Development was born out of 4-H Zimbabwe`s Youth Charter for Peace in the Electoral Processes of 2023. The charter saw the 11 political parties contesting in the 2023 elections, coming together and committing to peace and non-violence in electoral Processes. Article 10 of the 4-H Zimbabwe Convened Youth Charter on Peace and Electoral Processes speaks to the creation of the Youth Council for Peace and Development (YCPD).
Youth leaders from the 11 Political Parties testified about their journey with 4-H Zimbabwe from trainings, and engagement meetings to sports for peace games.
“The creation of the Youth Council for Peace and Development is a historic step towards building a stronger, more unified Zimbabwe. This initiative is designed to empower young leaders from diverse political backgrounds to engage in dialogue, create peaceful solutions to challenges, and actively contribute to the nation’s development. Together, we can harness the power of youth to drive positive change and peace in Zimbabwe,” said 4-H Zimbabwe Foundation Executive Director Mr. John Muchenje.
The YCPD was co-created by the 4-H Zimbabwe Foundation and the political parties’ youth departments. Through this collaborative initiative, 4-H Zimbabwe Foundation continues to promote the principles of respect for unity, peace and tolerance; ensuring inclusion, meaningful participation, and representation of youth in the electoral processes; and strengthening of political pluralism. 4-H Zimbabwe is the Convener of this new Peace Building structure in Zimbabwe.
The organisation will proceed to launch the YCPD in every Province in the country, making sure that this initiative is spread throughout.