_Hon. Minister Simbanegavi Champions Youth Empowerment Through Land Tenure Reform at Masvingo Polytechnic_ *By Tafara Pande* Masvingo — Hon. Minister Simbanegavi delivered a powerful and forward-looking address today at Masvingo Polytechnic College, urging young people to seize opportunities presented through land tenure reform and constitutional awareness. The event, featuring prominent businessman Dr. Kudakwashe Tagwirei as the guest speaker, focused on unlocking the economic potential of Zimbabwe’s youth through knowledge and access to land. In her keynote speech, Hon. Simbanegavi emphasized that access, control, and power over land are essential for real youth empowerment. “If we are to unlock the potential of our young people, they must understand their rights, the legal framework, and how to claim their space in the land economy,” she said. She reminded attendees that the Constitution of Zimbabwe is the supreme law, and its provisions, particularly on gender equality and youth inclusion, must guide all land-related policies. The Minister gave special attention to women’s rights, particularly married women who are often sidelined in land ownership discussions. “Despite the offer letter often being in the husband's name, the law allows married women to benefit from land ownership. Understanding this is key to ensuring equity and protecting family assets,” she explained, adding that education around inheritance rights and marital law is vital in strengthening women’s economic agency. Hon. Simbanegavi provided clarity on the types of land tenure recognized in Zimbabwe, Freehold, State Land, Leasehold. She stressed that rural land tenure, administered through traditional leaders such as village heads, offers a pathway to land access for all residents, regardless of gender or marital status. In a significant policy announcement, the Minister revealed a new government system that allows offer letters and permits to be valued and made bankable. This move, she explained, will enable young people to leverage land documents for financial capital, while also strengthening protections for women’s land rights, especially in the context of inheritance. Highlighting government priorities, Hon. Simbanegavi reiterated that war veterans and youth are at the forefront of land redistribution efforts. She also emphasized the importance of utilizing idle urban land to promote sustainable development and economic inclusion. The Minister praised Dr. Tagwirei for his visionary leadership in spearheading the program, which she described as timely and transformational. “Dr. Tagwirei’s initiative complements government efforts by equipping the youth with critical knowledge about land ownership, tenure systems, and economic empowerment,” she said. *Edited by Godfrey Gusha*