economy 24 March 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda Government Tackles Rising Youth Unemployment with New Job Support Measures
Uganda's State Minister for Employment highlights the growing youth unemployment crisis amid a surge in graduates, with the government allocating Shs10 billion to fund apprenticeships and district-level placements for fresh job seekers. The initiative aims to provide work experience and financial relief while graduates hunt for permanent roles. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/govt-seeks-solutions-as-youth-unemployment-pressures-mount-5401986
Uganda faces intensifying pressure to generate employment opportunities as a wave of young graduates from universities and private institutions compete for limited jobs. Many young people are shuttling between offices, only to face repeated rejections due to no vacancies.
At a media briefing in Kampala, State Minister for Employment and Industrial Relations Esther Anyakun addressed the issue, noting how the expansion of higher education has flooded the job market. With Uganda’s population at around 45.9 million and over 75% under 30, youth unemployment hovers at 13.3%, affecting millions who are either jobless, underemployed, or trapped in informal sector roles marked by low productivity and insecurity.
The minister emphasized that tapping into this youthful demographic is essential for sustainable economic progress. To counter the challenge, the government has boosted funding through the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development to Shs10 billion for the 2026/27 financial year, up from Shs2 billion previously.
This budget supports an apprenticeship program placing fresh graduates as community development officers (CDOs) in their home districts. They receive Shs500,000 monthly to gain experience, stay active, and manage job search costs without the high expenses of urban living like rent in Kampala.
Anyakun expressed gratitude for the increased allocation, which will allow more beneficiaries, and highlighted emerging zonal hubs to alleviate labour market strains. She remains confident that Uganda will steadily address its unemployment woes.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)