Zimbabwe Youth Council · Established by Act of Parliament, Chapter 25:19

ABOUT US

About the Zimbabwe Youth Council

A statutory body fostering youth development since 1983.

Who We Are

The Zimbabwe Youth Council (ZYC) is a body corporate established by an Act of Parliament — the Zimbabwe Youth Council Act [Chapter 25:19], originally promulgated in 1983 and substantively amended in 1997.

ZYC is the coordinating body of all registered youth organisations, associations and clubs in Zimbabwe. It is a quasi-governmental institution operating under the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training.

The Council exists to be the principal vehicle of linkage between Government and the youth, ensuring that the voices, aspirations and needs of young Zimbabweans inform national development.

Our Vision

To empower young women and men so that they can realise their full potential as individuals, as members of communities, political and social action groups, and youth organisations — as key contributors to a Prosperous Upper Middle Income Nation by 2030.

Our Mission

To coordinate, supervise and foster youth associations and clubs in Zimbabwe; to advise Government on the needs of youth; and to facilitate skills, employment, dialogue and participation opportunities for every young Zimbabwean.

Our Mandate

Under Section 3A of the ZYC Act, our statutory functions are to:

  1. Coordinate, supervise and foster the activities of national associations and clubs.
  2. Ensure the proper administration of national associations and clubs.
  3. Participate in national and international youth activities.
  4. Advise the Government on the needs of youth.
  5. With the approval of the Minister, undertake projects designed to create employment for young people, including fund-raising, marketing and trading activities.

The ZYC Act

Zimbabwe Youth Council Act [Chapter 25:19]

As amended in 1997

Provides for the establishment of the Zimbabwe Youth Council, the functions thereof, the registration and regulation of clubs and national associations, National Colours for youth, and matters incidental thereto. Supplemented by Statutory Instrument 14 of 2013 — the Zimbabwe Youth Council (General) Regulations.

Our Journey

1983

Zimbabwe Youth Council established by Act of Parliament — three years after Independence.

1997

ZYC Act substantively amended; functions formalised under Section 3A.

2000

First National Youth Policy promulgated.

2013

Statutory Instrument 14/2013 — ZYC (General) Regulations introduced.

2020

Revised National Youth Policy 2020–2025 launched, aligned with Vision 2030 and the African Youth Charter.

December 2024

New ZYC Board appointed by the Minister of Youth, with members drawn from all provinces.

March 2025

Inaugural Youth Model Parliament — Dare re Vadiki / Inkundla ya Batsha — convened.

Our Values

Inclusivity

Every young Zimbabwean — regardless of background, gender or ability — has a place in our work.

Accountability

We govern transparently and answer to the youth we serve and the public that funds us.

National Unity

We bring young people together across regional, ethnic and political lines.

Innovation

We embrace digital tools, modern skills and creative thinking to advance youth development.