Youth unemployment in Uganda remains a pressing concern, with many young people struggling to secure meaningful employment despite having formal qualifications.
According to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), youth unemployment among those aged 15–24 stood at 6.58% in 2022, while broader estimates indicate that nearly 30% of institutionally qualified youth remain without jobs.
Amid this challenge, the Director of Euro Gold Refinery, Feni Benard, has urged young people to explore opportunities in the gold trade as a viable pathway to economic empowerment.
Benard dismissed the perception that the gold business is reserved for elites or well-connected individuals, stressing that success in the sector is achievable through acquiring the necessary licenses, building trust, and working with credible partners.
He made the remarks while receiving the Best Innovative and Extraordinary Entrepreneur in Uganda 2026 award from Uganda National Innovative Graduates in Uganda, in recognition of his role in promoting entrepreneurship and expanding access to opportunities within the gold sector.
Benard noted that increased youth participation in the industry could significantly reduce unemployment while equipping young people with sustainable income streams.
He emphasized that with the right mindset and support systems, the gold trade can serve as a transformative avenue for youth seeking to break into business and build long-term financial stability.