Pail Juru Inerela Zimbabwe and Hivos SRHR Fund Ambassador
BY MUNYARADZI BLESSING DOMA
Youths play a critical role in advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), as well as promoting inclusivity and social justice, Paul Juru, INERELA+ Zimbabwe Coordinator and Hivos SRHR Fund Ambassador for East and Southern Africa has said.
Juru revealed this in his National Youth Day message, where he further called on young people to shun destructive behaviours.
Every year on February 21, the nation celebrates National Youth Day, which is dedicated to honouring the vital role that young people play in shaping the country’s present and future.
The theme for this year’s celebrations is “Empowering Youths, Securing the Future.”
“As we commemorate National Youth Day in Zimbabwe, I stand in solidarity with the young people of Zimbabwe who are driving positive change in their communities.
“As the INERELA+ Zimbabwe Coordinator and Hivos SRHR Fund Ambassador for East and Southern Africa, I recognize the critical role that young people play in advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), as well as promoting inclusivity and social justice.
“However, I also acknowledge the numerous challenges that our young people face, including the scourge of drug abuse, gender-based violence, sexual promiscuity, and the resultant teenage pregnancies and early marriages.
“These challenges not only undermine the health and well-being of our young people but also hinder their potential to contribute meaningfully to national development.
“Therefore, I urge our young people to shun these destructive behaviours and instead focus on acquiring relevant life skills that will empower them to make informed decisions about their lives.
“This includes education on SRHR, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and leadership,” said Juru.
He added: “I also encourage our young people to venture into income-generating projects that will empower them economically.
“By doing so, they will not only improve their own livelihoods but also contribute to the economic development of our nation.
“To the government, policymakers and stakeholders, I call upon you to provide an enabling environment that supports the empowerment of our young people.
“This includes investing in youth-friendly programs and services, creating opportunities for youth employment and entrepreneurship, and ensuring that our education system equips young people with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.
“Let us recommit ourselves to supporting and empowering our young people to reach their full potential. Happy Youth Day, Zimbabwe!”
