International Youth Day: Young Ugandans speak about the challenges and opportunities for the youth

Today (August 12), Uganda joins the rest of the world in celebrating International Youth Day, a day dedicated to recognizing the contributions of young people to society and addressing the challenges they face. Young people constitute close to 70% of Uganda’s population therefore they are a crucial driving force in economic development.

Youth Blitz spoke to six youths from Wakiso who shared their thoughts on their challenges and the opportunities they see ahead.

****************************************************************

Linda Achieng, 24, entrepreneur

Achieng, a small-scale business owner in Kyaliwajjala, expressed her frustration with the lack of access to capital. “Starting a business in Uganda is hard, especially for young people. Banks demand collateral, which most of us don’t have. Even when you do have something, the interest rates are too high. It feels like the system is stacked against us,” she said. Despite these challenges, she believes that the increasing availability of online resources and training programs offers opportunities for growth for young entrepreneurs.

Brian Mukasa, 26, climate activist

Mukasa believes that climate change is the major issue facing Uganda. “We’re seeing the effects of climate change more and more, from unpredictable weather patterns to the destruction of natural habitats. But what’s worse is that not enough is being done to involve young people in the solutions,” he said. He says there is a huge opportunity for young people to lead in finding solutions to the problems caused by climate change.

Maria Tumwine, 22, Student

Tumwine, a university student in Kampala, says our education system needs to be changed to solve the issue of unemployment. “The education system is not preparing us for the real world. We’re taught theory, but there’s little emphasis on practical skills or entrepreneurship. Many of my classmates graduate and can’t find jobs because they don’t have the skills employers are looking for,” she said. Tumwine says the emphasis should be on vocational training, which could help bridge the gap.

Samuel Okello, 28, software developer

Okello, who works in the tech industry, says the technology sector presents numerous opportunities for Ugandan youth. “Tech is one of the few sectors where young people can thrive without needing a lot of capital. All you need is a laptop and an internet connection, and you can create something that has global potential,” he said.

He says what the government can do is to bridge the digital that still exists in many parts of the country where many young people have no access to the internet.

Amina Nakato, 23, Health worker

Nakato works as a health worker at one of the health centers in Kira Municipality and says access to healthcare is still a big issue. “Many young people don’t have access to the services they need, whether it’s for sexual and reproductive health, mental health, or general healthcare,” she said. She believes that more investment in youth-friendly health services could make a significant difference in their health.

Moses Kirunda, 25, Farmer

Kirunda is a livestock farmer who rears chickens and goats. He says while agriculture is touted as the backbone of our country, it’s often seen as something for the older generation. He says with the right support, including access to modern farming techniques and markets, agriculture could provide a sustainable livelihood for many young Ugandans. “We need more training and access to technology. If we can get that, I think more young people will see farming as a viable career,” Kirunda said.

Top of Form

Bottom of Form