Lango youth rally behind economic recovery and industrial growth

5 October 2026, 12:15 pm

By Sarah Ejang

Thousands of young people braved the scorching sun in Lira City on Sunday to catch a glimpse of leaders from the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) and learn more about the proposed billion-shilling MK seed fund.

The massive turnout reflected the growing demand for economic relief across Northern Uganda, where climate change and restrictive policies have disrupted livelihoods. In Amolatar District, residents have reportedly lost two consecutive farming seasons due to unfavourable weather conditions.

Speaking during the launch, Deputy Resident District Commissioner Obonyo Magwar revealed plans to formally petition President Yoweri Museveni for a “Marshall Plan” to support the recovery of the local fishing and livestock sectors.

Although restrictions on fishing were introduced to eliminate illegal and destructive fishing methods, they have severely affected the mukene trade. The silver fish industry provides daily income for thousands of women and boda-boda riders in lakeside communities.

Livestock traders have also suffered significant losses. The suspension of cattle transportation by ferry has forced traders to use a longer route through Soroti, increasing transport costs by about 250,000 shillings per head of cattle.

Among the leaders who addressed the gathering were Health Minister Dr Jane Ruth Aceng, Government Chief Whip Hon. Hamson Obua and PLU’s Hon. Michael Mawanda. They called for a zero-tolerance approach to corruption under the campaign slogan, “Corruption Defeated Finally”.

The leaders argued that eliminating open corruption is essential if Northern Uganda is to attract national and international investment. They also urged communities to prioritise youth livelihood programmes that provide practical skills in welding, phone repair, construction, food processing and other trades.

Such skills, they said, would help young people secure reliable incomes throughout the year and enable families to withstand the effects of climate change and economic shocks.

Northern Uganda possesses fertile soils, abundant fisheries and growing tourism potential. Leaders emphasised that converting these resources into industrial growth would provide the most meaningful way to celebrate Uganda’s Independence Day on 9 October.