KAMPALA: Buganda Kingdom Prime Minister Charles Peter Mayiga has called on young people to embrace leadership and work towards self-reliance, saying leadership is critical to improving the welfare of communities.
Mayiga made the remarks at Bulange, Mengo, during a meeting with two youth organisations from the royal clan—Kayondo Hope Foundation and the Olulyo Olulangira Youth Network.
The groups visited Bulange to brief the Katikkiro on their activities, achievements and challenges.
Prince Henry Kayondo, the Executive Director of Kayondo Hope Foundation, said the organisation had established a savings and credit cooperative (SACCO) over the past four years to encourage members to cultivate a saving culture.
"In the last four years, we started a SACCO and have encouraged our members to embrace saving," Kayondo said.
Kenneth Tebandeke, the chairperson of the Olulyo Olulangira Youth Network, appealed to the Buganda Kingdom to consider members of the royal clan for employment opportunities where possible.
"The Balangira youth face a challenge of unemployment, and if there are any positions available in the kingdom, we pray that they can be considered," Tebandeke said.
Mayiga commended the two organisations for using their talents and abilities to improve their livelihoods and encouraged them to remain focused on initiatives that benefit their members.
He urged the youth to actively seek leadership positions, beginning within their clans, saying grassroots leadership provides a strong foundation for future national leaders.
"Where there is no leadership, society is doomed," Mayiga said.
"Leadership comes from the youth, and it is very important, especially within the clans."
The Katikkiro also encouraged the young princes and princesses to work hard while they are still young so they can build secure futures.
"This is the age to plan for the next phase of your lives, and it is very important," he said.
Mayiga reminded them that, as members of the Kabaka's royal lineage, they have a responsibility to uphold the dignity and values associated with the royal family.
The princes and princesses thanked the Katikkiro for his guidance and wished him a happy birthday.
