A recent youth-led research report has highlighted significant gaps in youth involvement in Uganda’s governance, planning, and national development, raising concerns about the exclusion of young people from critical decision-making processes.
The study, launched in Kampala with support from the British Council, notes that despite Uganda’s youthful population—where people aged 18 to 30 account for 22.7 percent—many young people remain sidelined in policy formulation and economic planning.
Findings indicate that youth are disproportionately affected by policy failures, particularly in areas like economic development, environmental conservation, and entrepreneurship.
Crises such as climate shocks and market disruptions have further compounded the challenges faced by young entrepreneurs.
Mukazania Diana, one of the lead researchers, said the lack of meaningful participation exposes youth to systemic challenges.
“There is no meaningful youth participation, and this leaves young people exposed to challenges like climate change and limited economic opportunities,” she explained.
Winnie Mirembe, another researcher, called for urgent government action to address the gaps identified.
A representative from the British Council, Apego, added that the report’s findings must translate into practical interventions.
“We hope the findings are not only well understood but also acted upon,” Apego said.
Government officials said they will first review the report before taking action.
Mondo Kyateka, Assistant Youth Commissioner at the Ministry of Gender, noted, “We are going to study the findings and assess their accuracy so we can come up with appropriate solutions to the challenges facing the youth.”
The study adds to growing calls for increased youth inclusion in governance, with stakeholders warning that failure to act could undermine Uganda’s ability to leverage its youthful population for sustainable economic growth.