We need to position youth as active change agents

As we stand at the threshold of a new era, the potential of youth to drive transformative change cannot be overlooked. With their boundless energy, fresh perspectives, and unwavering idealism, young people represent a potent force for transformations.

However, this potential often remains untapped, hindered by systemic barriers and a lack of opportunities for meaningful engagement. Uganda, with the second youngest population globally, represents this demographic reality, where 78 percent of its citizens are below the age of 35 and this youthful population is projected to double within the next 25 years, this underscores both the promise and urgency of positioning Uganda’s youth.
As Uganda approaches its upcoming 2026 elections, the spotlight is firmly on the youth, who represent the heart of the nation’s demographic.

With nearly 78 percent of the population under the age of 35, the youth hold unprecedented power in shaping the country's future. Yet, this demographic has long been sidelined in key decision-making processes with their voices rarely heard in the halls of power.

In Uganda where most voters are young people, their collective can determine the nation's direction. However, the challenge lies in harnessing that power to achieve meaningful change. Over the years, many young Ugandans have expressed frustration with the political system. They have watched as promises made during election campaigns are often left unfulfilled, which has left many youth questioning whether their vote even matters.

However, today's youth are more politically aware and active than ever before. Through social media platforms and grassroots movements, young people have found new ways to engage in political discourse, mobilise communities and demand accountability from leaders. They are no longer passive recipients of political decisions but rather active participants in shaping the policies that directly impact their lives.

According to the 2024 National Population and Housing Census report, 51 percent of the youth are unemployed, this is coupled with the challenges of accessing quality education and healthcare and climate change impacts. Positioning young individuals to actively participate in the electoral process, both as voters and potential candidates is foundational to fostering a vibrant and inclusive democracy.

Advocating for policies aimed at enhancing youth representation in government, such as lowering the voting age and implementing youth quotas within political parties, catalyses amplifying their voices and perspectives in decision-making, ensuring their meaningful contribution and shaping the future of our nation.

The inclusion of young people in political leadership will not only reflect the demographics of the nation but will also bring fresh perspectives, new ideas and innovative solutions to the challenges faced by the youth and country at large.
There is a need to engage the youth in workshops and trainings on leadership, advocacy, and project management for their development.

Mentorship and community engagement are also essential components of youth empowerment as we approach the upcoming elections.
This is the moment to move beyond seeing the youth as passive observers and recognise them as dynamic catalysts for change. The upcoming election presents an invaluable opportunity for young Ugandans to assert their influence, demand the transformations they seek, and ensure that their future is defined by their decisions.

Caroline Kinkuhaire, Climate Activist