The Deputy Resident City Commissioner for Makindye-Ssabagabo, Vicky Balinde Katongole, has urged young people across the country to actively participate in government initiatives designed to fight poverty and create self-employment opportunities.
Speaking in Masulita during a youth gathering organized by the ASSAY Youth Initiatives, Balinde encouraged the youth to take advantage of programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) and other government interventions intended to uplift communities.
The ASSAY Youth Initiatives is set to officially launch its association on the 24th of next month at Masulita grounds.
“The future of this country lies in the hands of young people. Government has put in place programs to empower you economically. What remains is your commitment to embrace them and make your lives better,” Balinde said.
She also cautioned against destructive behavior, warning that drug abuse, especially marijuana, continues to ruin the lives of many youths and threatens their future.
During the same event, ASP Michael Ndidde, the Officer in Charge at Masulita Police Station, raised concern about poor parenting in the community. He noted that negligence by some parents has contributed to an increase in youth delinquency, with some cases resulting in referrals to Butabika National Mental Hospital for rehabilitation.
“We cannot only blame the youth; some parents have abandoned their responsibilities. The result is young people engaging in crime and drug abuse,” Ndidde said.
The coordinator of ASSAY Youth Initiatives, Ibrahim Musoga Nakabona, outlined the association’s goals, emphasizing the importance of discipline, patience, and resilience among young people.
“Our mission is to build a generation that is self-reliant, hardworking, and disciplined. We want the youth to believe in themselves and their potential,” Nakabona stated.
Godfrey Mukisa, the Mayor of Masulita Town Council, echoed similar concerns, pointing to the growing number of idle youths in the area who are easily lured into destructive activities. He called for stronger community involvement in mentoring and guiding young people.
The event concluded with youth members receiving certificates of recognition from the Buganda Kingdom administration, in appreciation of their efforts to organize and work towards community transformation.
Balinde reiterated that with proper guidance, discipline, and active participation in government programs, Uganda’s youth can overcome challenges and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development.
