Youth Leaders in Mutare Champion Climate-Resilient Policies and Food Security

Mutare, Zimbabwe – 27 March 2025 – In a landmark event, the National Association of Youth Organizations (NAYO), in collaboration with the Urban Futures Mutare Consortium partners—Green Governance Trust and Manica Youth Assembly—hosted a dynamic policy meeting with Junior Parliamentarians and Junior Councillors in Mutare. Supported by the HIVOS Urban Futures Project, the gathering aimed to amplify youth voices in shaping policies for sustainable food systems and climate action while fostering collaboration for upcoming national dialogues.

The meeting featured insightful presentations from youth advocates and policymakers, emphasizing the critical role of young people in driving policy reforms. Mrs. Primrose Chiware of the Zimbabwe Youth Council (ZYC) highlighted the demographic power of youth in advocating for sustainable food policies, urging them to leverage social media to promote healthy eating and climate awareness.

Miss Clariss Masiya, HIVOS Urban Futures Project Manager, outlined Mutare’s food security challenges exacerbated by climate change and stressed the need for youth-inclusive policymaking.

Ian Chawanda, leading the consortium’s advocacy efforts, facilitated an engaging session where Junior Parliamentarians shared their experiences and policy recommendations.

Hon. Amy Ziyera, Child Governor for Manicaland Province, called for Agriculture to be made a compulsory subject in primary and secondary schools.

"Teaching agriculture will help young people appreciate indigenous food production and sustainable farming practices," Hon. Ziyera emphasized. "This knowledge is key to ensuring food security for future generations."

Junior Minister of State, Tanyaradzwa Mungove, highlighted the need for robust financial support in the upcoming Climate Change Management Bill to boost local adaptation and resilience, particularly for youth-led projects.

"Young people are leading climate action initiatives, but they need funding and policy support to scale their impact," Hon. Mungove stated.

Commitments and Next Steps

The meeting concluded with a strong commitment to collaborate on climate-resilient policies and prepare for an upcoming National Policy Dialogue. Participants agreed on the importance of:

• Incorporating traditional food knowledge into education and policy.

• Strengthening youth-led advocacy for sustainable urban food systems.

• Ensuring government responsiveness to youth-driven policy recommendations.

  
  

This gathering was more than just a discussion—it was a rallying cry for youth to take the lead in shaping Zimbabwe’s climate and food policies. As the Urban Futures Mutare Consortium continues its work, the energy and ideas from these young leaders will be crucial in building a more resilient and food-secure future.