Pic: Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Nonceba Mhlauli engaging with community members
By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe and Kopano Dibakwane
The 2026 Youth Parliament was successfully hosted by the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature at Sasol Club and Recreational Centre in Embalenhle on 9 June, Govan Mbeki Local Municipality.
The occasion, forming part of the build-up towards Youth Month celebrations to be held in the province and throughout the country, was vibrant as a number of young people from across the province to engage on key issues affecting youth, including unemployment, education, health, economic inclusion, gender-based violence, and access to opportunities.
The platform reportedly enabled constructive dialogue between government leaders, youth representatives, and stakeholders on solutions to socio-economic challenges facing young people.
It was also a platform for various communities and political parties to raise their concerns regarding jobs, honesty, and an equal voice on matters that affect their livelihood.
It was also a platform for various communities and political parties to raise their concerns regarding jobs, honesty, and an equal voice on matters that affect their livelihood.
According to Paul Mbenyane, Senior Communication Manager at the Provincial Legislature, the event symbolised a commitment by the Legislature to strengthen public participation and ensuring that young people play an active role in shaping democratic processes and development priorities.
“ The Acting Speaker of the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature, Sam Masango, reflected on the legacy of the 1976 youth generation and called on today’s youth to continue the struggle through economic
empowerment and active participation in. governance. He highlighted priorities such as youth health interventions, HIV and AIDS awareness programmes,skills development, and expanded access to economic opportunities,” said Mbenyane.
empowerment and active participation in. governance. He highlighted priorities such as youth health interventions, HIV and AIDS awareness programmes,skills development, and expanded access to economic opportunities,” said Mbenyane.
Delegates reportedly called for stronger accountability mechanisms, improved civic education, enhanced communication on electoral processes, and the establishment of youth oversight structures to ensure government programmes effectively respond to youth needs.
Mbenyane said the Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Nonceba Mhlauli, encouraged young people to actively participate in
democracy, leadership, and policy development, highlighting government initiatives focused on addressing youth unemployment, strengthening digital education, promoting innovation, and advancing sustainable development.
“The Youth Parliament concluded with a renewed commitment from both government and young people to work together towards building a more
inclusive, equitable, and economically empowered Mpumalanga. The engagement reaffirmed the importance of collaboration, accountability, and
innovation in advancing youth development across the province,” said Mbenyane.
innovation in advancing youth development across the province,” said Mbenyane.
Other speakers on the day included Mpumalanga MEC for DARDLEA(Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs), Khethiwe Moeketsi, amongst others.
