By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
In a pivotal move aimed at empowering Zimbabwe’s youth and women, the official launch of the Skills for Youth and Women Employability and Productivity Project took place today, heralding a new chapter of collaboration between the African Development Bank (AfDB), the Government of Zimbabwe, and the International Labour Organization (ILO).
Addressing a gathering of dignitaries, development partners, and key stakeholders at the event, Philile Masuku, the ILO Country Office for Zimbabwe and Namibia (CO-Harare) represented by Maria Mutandwa, highlighted the importance of the initiative in addressing the challenges facing young people and women in the workforce.
“It is an honour to join you today at this very important occasion,” Masuku began, emphasizing the project’s significance in enhancing the skills, employability, and productivity of Zimbabwe’s youth and women.
“This initiative marks a significant milestone in our continued efforts to empower young people and women through skills development, enterprise promotion, and enhanced employability.”
Masuku outlined the critical role that partnerships play in driving economic development and social inclusion.
She underscored the growing collaboration between AfDB, the Zimbabwean government, and the ILO, a partnership that has grown stronger over time to support sustainable livelihoods for Zimbabwe’s youth and women.
“This project is not a new intervention,” Masuku explained. “It is a strategic building block on the foundations laid by previous impactful initiatives, such as the Youth and Women Empowerment Project (2017-2022) and the Sustainable Enterprise Development for Women and Youth Project (2022-2026). These projects have provided invaluable lessons and best practices that will guide the success of this new initiative.”
The Skills for Youth and Women Employability and Productivity Project, which will run from 2025 to 2028, aims to create sustainable opportunities for young people and women through targeted skills training, business development support, and improved market linkages.
The goal is to enhance employability, boost productivity, and empower women and youth to drive economic transformation in Zimbabwe.
“We recognize the urgency of this work,” Masuku affirmed. “The ILO remains deeply committed to our partners, the Government of Zimbabwe, and most importantly, the young people and women who are at the heart of this project.”
The ILO official also emphasized the project’s broader goals of promoting inclusive growth, decent work, and social justice.
“This project represents hope and opportunity,” she said. “It is an investment in the potential of Zimbabwe’s youth and women, ensuring they have the skills and resources to thrive in today’s ever-evolving economy.”
The launch marks an important step in the ongoing efforts to create a more equitable and inclusive workforce in Zimbabwe, with a focus on sustainable economic growth, enterprise development, and social inclusion.
As Zimbabwe moves forward, the collaboration between the ILO, the Government of Zimbabwe, and AfDB promises to create lasting positive change, empowering youth and women with the tools they need to build a brighter future for themselves and the nation.
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