The Minister and her team said that this annual event holds significant importance as it provides an opportunity to recognize the invaluable role of young people in shaping the present and future of the nation.
Ms Sarah Nyirabashitsi Mateke, the Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs today, while briefing journalists at the Uganda media center, told them that this year’s celebration will reflect on the Covid-19 recovery in connection with youth employment.
“Under the theme “Accelerating Recovery from COVID-19 and full Implementation of the 2030 Agenda: The Role of Youth,” the occasion underscores the unwavering resilience, determination, and ingenuity displayed by the youth during challenging times, ” Hon. Nyirabashitsi Sarah Mateke
Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs said.
The Recovery of youth funds from the Covid-19 agenda started way back in 2021 after Covid 19 had reduced. In 2022, the Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development said that they were struggling to recover sha.129b borrowed by the Youth under the Youth Livelihood Programme (YLP).
In an interview with Mr. Julius Amulle Ocaya the Youth Livelihood Programme supervisor on 19th of November, 2022 said that out the sha. 169b, which was used on different enterprises since 2013, only Shs40b was recovered by 2018/19 FY.
Min Mateke said that the COVID-19 pandemic, which made its presence known in Uganda on March 21, 2020, left an indelible mark on every facet of life. The youth, constituting a substantial portion of the population, live many of the youth with different challenges including disrupted education, job losses, reduced access to resources, and heightened mental health concerns. However, they emerged from this adversity with remarkable resilience.
“Throughout the pandemic, the youth have risen to the occasion, spearheading the battle against COVID-19. Their contributions have included raising awareness, extending support to vulnerable communities, and driving innovation in various sectors.” She said
Hon. Makete added, “On the occasion of International Youth Day, their role in accelerating the nation’s recovery from the pandemic and their active contributions towards realizing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development are being acknowledged.”
The Minister said the celebrations will witness the presence of His Excellency Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the President of the Republic of Uganda, as the Chief Guest. As the nation rejoices in the achievements of its youth, plans are underway to supplement existing programs with innovative interventions. Initiatives like the UN Joint Programme for Adolescents and Youth, a National Action Plan for Youth, Peace, and Security, a reviewed National Action Plan for Youth Policy, and the integration of youth issues into government approaches are steps taken to further empower the youth.
Speaking at Uganda Media Center, representatives of the Government of Uganda reiterated their steadfast commitment to supporting the youth during these trying times. Initiatives such as the Economic Stimulus Package, Youth Livelihood Programme, Uganda Women Entrepreneurship Program, and the establishment of innovation hubs underscore the government’s dedication to nurturing the potential of the youth.
” The Ministry State for Youth and Children Affairs is here to oversee the progress of the youth on the agenda of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the SDGs are 17 in number that is to say Health, education, food, equality etc and we all know the youth are many so with this we are fighting poverty with the help of Government,” Mr. Guloba Rogers senior Probation officer said.
The Ministry also says that Uganda’s economic progress is evident through impressive expansion. The fiscal year 2023/24 budget, which focuses on commercial agriculture, industrialization, services, digital transformation, and market access, bodes well for the nation’s future.
“Key priorities aimed at enhancing youth productivity encompass boosting household incomes, promoting agricultural commercialization, providing private sector support, improving infrastructure, and strategic interventions in innovation and research,” said Guloba the senior probation officer.
He added, “The government’s commitment to youth empowerment and economic growth is reflected in strategic allocations for sectors such as agriculture, works and transport, tourism and hospitality, ICT, and energy development. These investments are set to provide the youth with opportunities to break free from the cycle of poverty and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s progress.”
According to Hon.Nyirabashitsi Sarah Mateke, the youth of Uganda have already demonstrated immense potential in their contributions towards the 2030 Agenda. Platforms such as Youth Councils, youth representation in Parliament, and youth networks have provided avenues for their concerns to be heard and their actions to be taken. Legal frameworks like the Uganda National Youth Policy and the National Youth Council Act serve as foundations for their active participation.
“As International Youth Day 2023 is commemorated, it serves as a reminder to nurture the aspirations of the young generation. Collectively overcoming challenges, accelerating recovery, and harnessing the full potential of the youth will pave the way for a brighter tomorrow for Uganda and its youth” she said.
