Independent candidate for Bugabula South, Robert Gwaivu , has raised alarm over high youth unemployment and persistent energy poverty in the constituency, describing them as some of the most urgent challenges facing residents today.
Speaking during the Bugabula South Parliamentary Debate hosted by NBS Television on Sunday, Gwaivu painted a grim picture of socio-economic conditions, particularly affecting young people and rural households.
“Over 70% of the youth in Bugabula South are unemployed. That’s the crisis we are in,” he said, emphasizing that the lack of jobs has left many young people without stable incomes or prospects for the future.
Gwaivu noted that widespread youth unemployment has contributed to rising poverty levels, increased dependency, and frustration within communities. He called for deliberate policies focused on skills development, job creation, and support for local enterprise.
He also highlighted the constituency’s slow progress in access to modern energy, pointing out that many households still lack electricity decades into the 21st century.
“It is concerning that, in 2025, many people in Bugabula still rely on small paraffin lamps,” he said, describing the situation as unacceptable in an era of technological advancement.
According to Gwaivu, limited access to electricity has negatively affected education, healthcare delivery, business growth, and overall quality of life. He stressed that energy access is not a luxury but a basic necessity for development.
Gwaivu will face off with Proscovia Salaamu Musumba of the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), Matayo Bazaanya of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), Andrew Muwanguzi of the National Unity Platform (NUP), Ronald Kirimani Kabanda of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), as well as independent candidates Sanon Moses Dhizaala and Patricia Katagwa.
All are seeking to succeed outgoing legislator Henry Maurice Kibalya, who has represented the constituency since 2021 under the ruling NRM ticket.