Several entrepreneurs and ten global business leaders of African descent have urged young people to take responsibility for their future by embracing innovation and entrepreneurship.
The call was made by influential figures such as Patrick Bitature, Chairman of Simba Group, and Timothy Armoo, 2X Tech founder, during the TEDx MUBS 2025 gathering. The event, licensed by TEDx and hosted by Mathew Ainembabazi Mathew, connected young people directly with global thinkers, investors, entrepreneurs, and executives.
The gathering addressed one of Africa’s most urgent challenges—youth unemployment—despite the continent’s immense potential, characterized by abundant natural resources and a rapidly growing youthful population. The unemployment crisis remains complex and multifaceted, driven by economic, social, and structural barriers that hinder job creation and skills development. Today, over 71% of young Africans are either unemployed or engaged in vulnerable forms of work.
With traditional job pathways narrowing, many young Africans are increasingly turning to entrepreneurship as both a survival strategy and a long-term career path. However, many still struggle due to limited access to infrastructure, mentorship, financing, and global markets.
TEDx MUBS 2025 provided a platform for powerful conversations, mentorship opportunities, and cross-border connections. The event also highlighted Kampala’s growing reputation as a hub for innovation and youth-led entrepreneurship—an impact many participants described as career-shifting.
“Entrepreneurship is not just a path to income for African youth, but a path to identity, dignity, and possibility. When we give young founders the platform, mentorship, and visibility they deserve, we are not just reducing unemployment—we are rewriting Africa’s economic story,” said Lynn Tukei, the event moderator.