KAMULI — Youth from the Busambu Namasagali Fangone Ghetto group have cautioned government officials and the National Resistance Movement (NRM) against branding them as misfits or opposition supporters, urging the party to instead engage local human resources in the upcoming campaigns.
Speaking at Busambu Kikonko Trading Centre during a meeting with Kamuli Assistant Resident District Commissioner (RDC) John Robert Batambuze, the youth said government programs should be made more accessible and relevant to the specific needs of rural communities.
The meeting was organised by youth advocate Promise Violet Aliyinza.
“We are disappointed that even Mzee has been misled to believe that the Ghetto Youth are for Bobi Wine and the opposition,” said Igoola Waiswa, the group’s spokesperson.
“We are deprived of government programs like the Parish Development Model because of stringent requirements, but in our hearts, we are NRM. Mzee is our Jajja, and we want him to look after all his Bazukulu equally like a true grandpa.”
Waiswa said that government and politicians often alienate ghetto youth, pushing them into defiance to be heard.
“In actual sense, the Ghetto Youth just need a beginning — somewhere to put their youthful energy positively,” he added.
Tired of being labelled opposition fronts, the youth said they reorganised themselves and started a poultry and chapati-making project, guided by their mentor Promise Violet Aliyinza, whom they praised for helping them rise from a “toxic environment” into productivity.
“Aliyinza is a role model to the girls and youth. She encouraged us to back Mzee and Mama Kadaga, and now we are ready for development and progress with NRM,” Waiswa said.
Aliyinza, fondly referred to by the youth as the Ghetto Princess, said her efforts aim to ensure that young people are included in national development and politics.
“As we celebrate NRM’s milestones, Mzee should ensure that all the lost Bazukulu are herded back to the kraal,” she said.
“The youth are the biggest gain of this government and must be protected, mobilised, and motivated into productivity.”
In his response, Assistant RDC Batambuze praised the group’s initiative and pledged support for their income-generating projects.
He urged them to formalise their associations and avoid being exploited by opportunistic politicians.
“We welcome your positive energy and your resolve to embrace Mzee and Mama Kadaga, who are pillars of the NRM Party,” Batambuze said.
“Through your sister Aliyinza, we shall check our granaries and get you chicken to rear and inputs to boost your chapati business, which Minister Balaam helped kickstart.”
