Youth launch campaign ahead of Golden Jubilee celebrations

By Cecilia Okoth

The youth have launched a campaign targeted at advancing their participation in the running of the affairs of the country as Uganda looks to mark 50 years of independence in October.

The campaign, dubbed “We are for UG” was launched by the Uganda Youth Network (UYONET), a Non-Governmental Organization.

In essence, UYONET amplifies youth voices to take on leadership roles and responsibilities.           

“As we look to start the journey to the next 50 years and beyond, young people must be positioned to engage at all levels to reconstruct Uganda and beyond the current colonial identities,” said Emmanuel Kitamirike, the director of UYONET. 

In the launch that was held at Imperial Royal Hotel, Kitamirike added that there is need to mobilize youth to engage in discussions that will make them better leaders.           

“At 50 years, the country faces a demographic crossroad with 78.3% of the population constituted of children and youth.
Their demographic dividends are yet to be tapped in matters of nation building and national cohesion,” he said.            

Rt. Rev. Dr. Zac Niringiye, the Bishop of All Saints Cathedral officially launched the campaign and hailed the youth for coming up with the initiative.           

“It is not enough to say we are young and dominate the population. What we need is leadership with conviction, courage, character and commitment from you,” the Bishop said.            

However, Dr. Miria Matembe, the co-founder of Action for Development and a former Member of Parliament cautioned the youth to rise up for the country and not for individual selfish reasons.           

“It is not a coincidence that you have chosen to wake up as Uganda celebrates 50 years of independence. Therefore stay restless, be honest with each other and embrace this year with joy,” Matembe said.