George M Chikwanda

This paper carries out a critical investigation pertaining to youth participation and empowerment in Africa using Zimbabwe as the case study. Youths have generally been neglected in critical decision making processes in Africa and beyond. They have been relegated to the role of mare spectators and not as active contributors to decision making processes. Failure to involve youths in decision making and development at both Local and National levels is a sustainable development threat as it works against the spirit of National continuity and Ubuntu. If youths are involved in decision making and development, sustainable Local and National development is a guaranteed reality as youths are well braced with the techniques of running modern day organisations in this digital era. A common statement linked to sustainable development in the African proverbs circles goes like "Youths are the leaders of tomorrow" which shows why youths should fit in the current leadership and management challenges for the destiny or fate of the nation rests in youths. An unescapable reality is that failure to empower and involve youths is an enemy of National continuity.