The energy at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair 2026 was unmistakable — a clear signal that Zimbabwe’s youth are not waiting for opportunity; they are ready to build it.
My participation in the RBZ Youth Business Forum, convened in partnership with the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe, the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, and EmpowerBank, was both a privilege and a powerful reminder of what is possible when policy, finance and ambition converge.
At the heart of the forum was a landmark announcement: the launch of a Youth Economic Empowerment Revolving Fund valued at US$1 000 000.
This is not just a funding facility — it is a strategic instrument designed to democratise access to capital.
By distributing resources equitably across all provinces, the initiative ensures that no young Zimbabwean is left behind due to geography.
More importantly, as a revolving fund, it embeds a culture of responsibility and sustainability — beneficiaries are expected to repay, enabling others to access the same opportunities in a continuous cycle of empowerment.
During my presentation, I unpacked the mandate of EmpowerBank, highlighting its critical role as a bridge between ambition and access to finance.
EmpowerBank is not merely a lender; it is an enabler of youth potential — providing affordable loans, financial literacy and tailored support to help young entrepreneurs transition from ideas to viable enterprises.
I emphasised that beyond funding, the institution offers a pathway to formalisation, growth and long-term sustainability.
The interactive question-and-answer session that followed was particularly insightful. Young people engaged candidly on the issues that matter most to them — collateral requirements, accessibility of funding, repayment structures and the scope of opportunities available.
These are not abstract concerns; they are real barriers that often determine whether an idea takes flight or fades away.
The dialogue reaffirmed the importance of designing financial products that are responsive, inclusive and aligned with the realities of youth entrepreneurship.
One of the most encouraging takeaways from the discussion was the growing awareness among young people of the need for bankability — the discipline of preparing viable business proposals, maintaining financial records and demonstrating commitment.
Access to finance is a two-way street: while institutions must lower barriers, entrepreneurs must also rise to meet the standards that ensure sustainability.
My reflection from this engagement is clear: this revolving fund has the potential to be a game-changer. If effectively managed and complemented by capacity-building initiatives, it will unlock a new wave of job creation, innovation and enterprise development across Zimbabwe.
Each funded project represents more than a business – it represents livelihoods, community development and a step towards achieving national economic aspirations.
However, the success of this initiative will depend on three critical factors:
Prudent fund management to ensure transparency and sustainability
Strong partnerships between government, financial institutions and youth organisations
Continuous mentorship and monitoring to support beneficiaries beyond disbursement
The collaboration between the ministry, EmpowerBank and the Reserve Bank sets a strong foundation.
It signals a shared commitment not only to fund the youth but to walk the journey with them.
As we look beyond the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair 2026, the task ahead is clear: to translate this bold vision into measurable impact.
The youth of Zimbabwe are ready. With the right support systems in place, they will not only create jobs for themselves but become engines of growth for the nation.
This is more than a funding initiative – it is the dawn of a new era of youth-driven economic transformation.
Jabulani Nyakurerwa is a Marketing and Business Development Professional. He writes in his own capacity-herald
