On Friday, May 24, President Emmerson Mnangagwa relaunched the controversial National Youth Service (NYS) program, now renamed Youth Service in Zimbabwe (YSZ), at the Nhakiwa Vocational Training Centre in Uzumba Maramba Pfungwe, Mashonaland East Province.
The program had been suspended for several years due to funding issues. Prior to its suspension, it faced criticism for producing the infamous ZANU PF youth brigades, commonly referred to as “Green Bombers” because of their distinctive uniforms.
The President stated that Zimbabwe’s Youth Service is intended to cultivate patriotic, well-rounded, and disciplined citizens. He remarked:
“My Government is dedicated to the comprehensive development of our youth. Extensive interactions and consultations nationwide have highlighted the need for Government to develop programs specifically aimed at shaping citizens who can be trusted with Zimbabwe’s future.
As a result, the Youth Service in Zimbabwe Programme has been rebranded, incorporating your views and ideas.
With its reintroduction, the Youth Service in Zimbabwe Programme aims to nurture patriotic, well-rounded, and disciplined citizens equipped with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to achieve their full potential.
The Programme also seeks to develop young people who are responsible, hardworking, and loyal to Zimbabwe’s founding values.
This includes improving livelihoods, managing disasters, protecting the environment, and ensuring food security.
Ultimately, the Programme will foster a positive national identity and encourage a culture of service and constructive participation among Zimbabwe’s youth.
We do not want the youth to engage in societal ills such as drug and substance abuse. Pasi neMutoriro.”
