Two innovation hubs for Byo
TENDAI BHEBE IN BULAWAYO
The SNV Netherlands Development Organisation has partnered with the Jairos Jiri Association and the Bulawayo City Council (BCC) to set up two innovation hubs in Nguboyenja and Mabutweni high density suburbs in Bulawayo, meant to transform the lives of vulnerable youths in the city.
The permanent secretary in the Ministry of Sports arts and culture Thokozile Chitepo said the hubs will create employment for youths.
“These hubs have been established to strengthen the capacity of both Jairos Jiri and BCC towards delivering cutting edge market driven youth employment opportunities,” Chitepo said.
She said the the youth are trained in life and business skills in areas such as horticulture, fish farming, small livestock and mushroom production in endeavour to ensure the success of these hubs.
The hubs are strategically located to address issues of gender and social inclusion, Chitepo said.
She said the government in partnership with development partners, is directing its efforts in ensuring that youth are not just employment seekers but also employment creators through creation of hubs which nurtures them in that direction.
“Supporting youth entrepreneurs and people with disabilities will go a long way in enhancing the economy’s employment capacity,” Chitepo said.
SNV is implementing the Opportunities for Youth Employment programme funded to the tune of US$5 m in 11 districts in Zimbabwe.
It started the programme in 2019 which seeks to improve the livelihood and prospects of 10 000 out-of-school youths.
Thulani Ncube, the youth skills advisor for SNV said: “Jairos Jiri is one of our strategic partners. They present us with opportunities to deliver youth training programmes.”
