NUP youths seek government commitment to youth agenda

12 August 2024, 3:03 pm

By Byamukama Alozious

As the world celebrates International Youth Day, Ugandan youths gathered at a press conference in Kavule, Kampala, to express their concerns and frustrations. Silvia Namutyaba, a youth representative from central Uganda, highlighted the pressing issues affecting young people in the country.

“Despite our education, we face staggering levels of unemployment,” Namutyaba said. “Those who venture into entrepreneurship are stifled by high taxation, while those interested in politics are met with resistance from incumbent leaders who refuse to relinquish power.”

Nnatabi Maria, a youth representative from the eastern region, announced a nationwide initiative to empower fellow youths with solutions to these challenges. “We will travel across the country, teaching and training our peers on democracy, human rights, and practical solutions to address unemployment, taxation, and political representation,” Maria said.

The press conference was also attended by the northern youth representative Oyek Gerald, who expressed concerns about the large number of youths leaving the country to seek employment opportunities abroad. “It’s alarming to see our talented youths seeking jobs elsewhere due to a lack of opportunities here,” Gerald said. “We urge the government to address these issues and create an enabling environment for youths to thrive in Uganda.”

The NUP youth who organised the press conference called on the government and stakeholders to take action to address these pressing concerns and ensure that Ugandan youths can fully enjoy their rights and realise their potential.