The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, has advised young people not to focus solely on politics but to acquire additional skills that can help them become self-reliant outside the political arena.
He made the remarks while addressing NRM youth who had paid him a courtesy call at Bulange Mengo to foster a relationship between the young people and the Buganda Kingdom.
Led by their chairperson, Macxzzon Muhwezi, the NRM youth visited Bulange to meet the Katikkiro. He urged them not to rely entirely on politics but to pursue other ventures that can support their livelihood in case they fail to secure political leadership positions.
The Katikkiro emphasised that while they are involved in politics, it should not be their only path in life. He encouraged them to engage in income-generating activities such as farming, among others.
‘’Politics alone is not enough to sustain your life. You must learn other skills that can help you stand on your own, especially if political opportunities do not work out,” the Katikkiro noted.
He said that during their youthful years, they should seek knowledge and skills, prepare for leadership, be trainable and ready to learn.
The Katikkiro noted that the Buganda Kingdom values the youth greatly, and even the Kabaka has entrusted the current generation with responsibilities, so they must protect that trust and keep the flame burning.
He also encouraged the youth in the NRM to boldly speak to their leaders in power about issues that are not going well so they can be addressed.
Among the major challenges facing the country, he highlighted poverty, corruption and youth unemployment urging the youth to focus on these areas.
‘’Your youthful years are a time to learn and gain experience. Don’t let that energy go to waste use it to build a future’’ the katikkiro said
One of his specific recommendations was for youth to engage in coffee farming, as it has a stable market and a single coffee plantation can employ several people due to its multiple stages of production.
The youth pledged to implement all the advice given and to pass on the message to senior leaders. They also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to visit the Kingdom’s seat.
Young people make up the largest portion of Uganda’s population, and there is a need for targeted programs to ensure every youth becomes a productive citizen for the country.