The 25th Chitungwiza Junior Council was inaugurated on October 19, 2024, marking a significant milestone in local youth representation. New faces have officially taken the helm from the outgoing Junior Council, with a fresh mandate to address pressing youth issues in Chitungwiza.
Formed in 1999, the Chitungwiza Junior Council was established to tackle challenges such as child abuse, sexually transmitted diseases, and the lack of youth participation in governance. Over the years, it has become a crucial platform for the youth to engage with local government and advocate for children’s rights.
The Chitungwiza Junior Council has a structured leadership system, including an executive board composed of a Mayor, Deputy Mayor, and Town Clerk. These leaders oversee various committees, including health, finance, and project management, aimed at addressing the most urgent concerns in the community. The organization, which is youth-led, also serves as a bridge between the local government and young people, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs addressed.
In this year’s inauguration ceremony, the new Junior Council leaders were formally introduced, taking over the responsibilities from their predecessors. This transition represents not only a renewal of leadership but also a commitment to continuing the legacy of empowering young people in Chitungwiza.
During the inauguration, key objectives of the Junior Council were highlighted, including:
- Youth Representation: The council strives to create a child- and youth-led organization that represents and facilitates the needs of youth in primary, secondary, and community life.
- Bridging the Gap: One of its primary goals is to bridge the gap between the Chitungwiza Municipality and youth, ensuring youth participation within the jurisdiction in line with local government by-laws.
- Promoting Participation: The council actively promotes child and youth participation at the local government and community levels, encouraging engagement through initiatives such as the Chitungwiza Junior Council.
Patron of the Junior Council, who acts as the liaison between the junior and senior councils, emphasized the importance of maintaining strong communication and collaboration between both councils to ensure effective advocacy for children’s rights.
The Junior Council comprises elected representatives from local schools across Chitungwiza, with members tasked with addressing issues affecting the youth and advocating for positive change in their community. This year’s inauguration signals the beginning of a new chapter for the Junior Council as it continues to champion youth development, children’s rights, and active participation in governance.
As the new council embarks on its journey, the Chitungwiza Municipality and the wider community will be looking to them to carry forward the torch of youth empowerment and set an example for future generations.