Minister Machakaire cites “personal capacity building,” but observers question potential for conflicts of interest
By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
HARARE – In a notable shift toward individual empowerment, Youth Minister Tino Machakaire announced Tuesday that EmpowerBank is ready to provide tailored financial services—including loans—directly to Zimbabwe Youth Council board members and youth leaders.
The announcement came during a charged address at the ZYC Strategic Planning Workshop, where the Minister demanded a major institutional overhaul.
After outlining stringent reforms for the Council, Machakaire pointed to EmpowerBank as a “concrete example of how structural strength and personal capacity can, and must be developed in tandem.”
“EmpowerBank stands ready to empower board members and youth leaders directly with tailored financial services, including loans,” the Minister stated.
EmpowerBank, a state-owned microfinance institution launched to advance financial inclusion, has primarily targeted young entrepreneurs and women.
Extending its services to the leadership of a key parastatal represents a significant, and potentially controversial, expansion of its mandate.
Economic analyst Prosper Chitambira raised questions about the move. “While building the capacity of youth leaders is commendable, offering loans to sitting board members of a body that coordinates public youth funds requires transparent safeguards,” Chitambira said.
“We must ensure this does not create perceived or actual conflicts of interest, or incentivize loyalty over merit.”
A senior official at EmpowerBank, speaking on condition of anonymity, clarified that the offer was part of a broader “Leadership Empowerment Package” aligned with national youth development goals.
“These are not blank checks. They are structured financial products designed to help leaders invest in skills, education, or community projects that amplify their public service,” the official explained.
However, some youth representatives expressed skepticism. “Is this an incentive for us to fall in line with the Minister’s new ‘control’ agenda?” asked one provincial youth chair who requested anonymity. “Empowerment should be for the masses, not just those in meeting rooms.”
In his speech, Minister Machakaire did not specify loan amounts, eligibility criteria, or repayment terms. The Ministry of Youth has yet to release detailed guidelines on the initiative.
The announcement underscores the government’s twin-track approach to youth development: enforcing stricter institutional control while offering direct financial tools to selected individuals within the system.
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