For young people in Bulawayo looking to develop their skills, explore technology or turn an idea into a business, the revamped Isiziba Youth Innovation Hub in Njube offers a space to begin.

Bulawayo Mayor Senator David Coltart officially commissioned the rehabilitated centre on Tuesday, unveiling a facility that brings together technology, agriculture, entrepreneurship and youth development under one roof.

The hub has been equipped with a computer laboratory with Starlink internet connectivity, a training hall, greenhouses, demonstration gardens and an indigenous tree seed bank. It also features water-efficient food production technologies, giving young people an opportunity to learn practical skills that can be applied beyond the training environment.
For a city where young people need opportunities to develop their talents and create sustainable sources of income, the facility presents a chance to explore different paths into employment and entrepreneurship.

The rehabilitation was undertaken by the City of Bulawayo in partnership with Hivos and its implementing partners, including the Bulawayo Vendors and Traders Association, Lupane State University, Green Hut, Africa Food Revolution Trust and the Unemployed and Vulnerable Foundation Trust.

The work falls under the Urban Futures Project, which seeks to connect youth-led green enterprises and innovations with markets and strategic partners while promoting sustainable urban food systems and environmental resilience.
Council approved the partnership in October last year, with the centre remaining under the ownership of the City of Bulawayo.

Speaking at the commissioning,Senator Mayor Coltart commended the partners for their contribution and called for the model to be replicated at other youth centres across the city.

“The City of Bulawayo values Public Private Partnerships as a viable model to improve the City’s governance systems,” he said.

“We commend development partners for working with the City on a project that directly impacts the community.”

During a tour of the facility, the mayor visited the greenhouse and smart agriculture demonstration bay, the seed bank, kitchen, youth games area and wellness centre.
The centre’s approach combines traditional, hands on learning with technology.
Raised garden beds fitted with moisture sensors and QR codes allow users to monitor growing conditions and access information about the plants, introducing young people to practical ways of using technology in agriculture.

The wellness centre also recognises that youth development goes beyond acquiring technical skills. It provides a space where young people can unwind and access counselling, bringing mental wellbeing into the wider conversation about empowerment.

The agricultural facilities offer opportunities to learn about food production, water conservation and the cultivation of indigenous trees.
For aspiring entrepreneurs, these skills could provide a starting point for exploring green businesses and other income generating activities.