Youth encouraged to take initiative in achieving SDGs

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Young people in Uganda have been urged to adopt a proactive mindset, remain focused on their goals, and become catalysts for change in their communities as the country strives to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This call to action was made during a one-day orientation workshop for student leaders from various universities and representatives of civil society organisations, held at Mt. Zion Hotel in Kampala on July 8, 2025.

The event, organised by the United Nations Association of Uganda (UNAU), aimed to link the newly launched National Development Plan IV (NDP IV) with the global SDG framework.

Richard Tinkasiimire Baguma, secretary general of UNAU, challenged the youth to move away from a culture of dependency and inaction. He urged them to take responsibility for their futures.

“Part of the message I want to convey to young people today is that there is a growing tendency to wait—waiting for someone else to come and solve their problems,” he said.

“Young people must stop perceiving themselves as passive recipients of assistance and instead become active participants in shaping their lives and communities.”

Baguma stressed that the youth should regard themselves as leaders and innovators capable of solving problems rather than relying on external help.

“There is an expectation that others are responsible for their lives. But my reminder is that if you are 18, you are not a child. This is why you must take responsibility for your own future.”



Citing global statistics, Baguma noted that there are currently 1.8 billion individuals aged between 10 and 24, with 90% residing in developing countries like Uganda.

He added that by 2030, around 1.9 billion young people will have reached the age of 15, making it essential for this generation to be equipped and inspired to take action now.

“Why do so many shy away from confronting the numerous challenges around them?” he asked.

“The notion that society owes them everything must change. They need to realise that success begins with their own initiative.”

He encouraged participants to begin small by initiating community-based projects and gradually building the skills and networks required to achieve a greater impact.

“If others have succeeded, so can you,” he said. “What matters is dedication, understanding your context, and collective action.”

Ashiraf Kakaire, a representative from Open Space Uganda, emphasised the importance of aligning national development priorities with the SDGs.

He pointed out that NDP IV includes key interventions aligned with specific SDG targets, particularly in areas such as education (Goal 4), clean water and sanitation (Goal 6), and innovation (Goal 9).

“There is a clear connection between the government’s planned investments and the SDGs,” Kakaire stated.

“However, youth must go beyond mere advocacy. They should engage in knowledge development, mobilise their peers, and ensure proper monitoring and evaluation of government programmes.”

He added that young people should hold public institutions accountable for the effective use of resources.

“The government allocates significant funds to these programmes. It is our responsibility to follow up, assess whether the money is being used appropriately, and determine if it is producing real change,” he said.

Maria Akoth, a student at Kampala International University, expressed gratitude for the training, saying it had empowered her to contribute towards localising the SDGs.

“I’m grateful for what I learned about government initiatives, especially in areas like clean water,” she said.

“I now feel equipped to play a role in ensuring the successful realisation of the SDGs.”

Linda Asaba, programmes manager at UNAU, encouraged youth leaders to localise implementation efforts and recognise that achieving the SDGs is not solely the responsibility of governments.

“Everyone has a role to play,” she said. “The SDGs are about people and must be integrated into communities. Young people can lead the charge in mobilising action.”