By Cimba Shepherd Nhamo
Siakobvu, Zimbabwe — In a significant move to economically empower young people in Kariba, Mashonaland West ZANU-PF Youth Chairperson Tapiwa Masenda handed over two fishing permits to Kariba youth during the Nyaminyami District Annual Tournament, held in Ward 10, Siakobvu.
The fishing permits, which were initially allocated to the provincial youth executive, were rechanneled to Kariba youth after the leadership made a deliberate decision to prioritize grassroots empowerment. The handover took place on Sunday, with Masenda serving as guest of honor at the tournament.
“My mission is to empower youth in every corner of Mashonaland West with income-generating projects that bring real change,” Masenda said. “This is about giving young people the tools they need to improve their lives and become economically independent.”
Organized by the Nyaminyami Community Trust and Recreation, the annual event was held under the theme “Sober Youth Enjoy Sporting, Not Poaching.” The provision of fishing permits fits into that theme, allowing young people to legally engage in fishing activities while discouraging illegal poaching and promoting sustainable use of natural resources.
Masenda, who is widely respected by youth across the province, has earned admiration for his unwavering devotion to youth empowerment. Known for connecting with young people from all walks of life, he also leads the “Donate Shoes” crusade, a humanitarian initiative targeting vulnerable children in rural schools with donations of school shoes.
During the event, youth were given a platform to voice their grievances and challenges. In a heartfelt response, Masenda assured them that he would take their concerns directly to the Head of State. He expressed confidence that President Emmerson Mnangagwa, whom he described as “a listening leader,” would respond positively and swiftly to the issues raised.
Masenda also encouraged youth leaders to be inclusive and transparent in how they manage the fishing permits, warning against corruption. “The Second Republic led by President Mnangagwa is against corruption,” he said. “As youth leaders, we must lead by example and uphold accountability.”
In addition to the fishing permits, Masenda donated soccer balls to promote sporting among the youth, urging them to pursue healthy lifestyles and stay away from drugs and other social ills.
The event was also graced by Tichaona Nigiel Shamhu, the shadow MP for Kariba Constituency, who has remained active in community development work despite not winning the parliamentary seat. Shamhu continues to attend local programs, listen to community grievances, and lend a helping hand to many, making him a respected figure in the area.
Masenda was accompanied by several senior ZANU-PF officials, including ZANU-PF National Secretary for Education Shepherd Marime, Mashonaland West Provincial Vice Chairman Kudzai “Mude Mude” Mudekunye, Provincial Political Commissar Ertbetry Mbayiwa, Provincial Member Thomas Chidzomba, and Kariba DCC Secretary for Youth Affairs Lister Nhigo — all of whom came in solidarity with the youth empowerment agenda.
Chief Msampakaruma, the patron of the tournament, thanked Masenda for taking time to attend the event and support youth initiatives. “We are thankful for your presence and commitment to uplifting our young people. Your support means a lot to this community,” he said.
The Nyaminyami District Annual Tournament continues to serve as a crucial platform for youth development, community interaction, and environmental awareness in the Nyaminyami area — a tradition proudly upheld by local leadership and community stakeholders.
