news 13 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda Youth Day: Govt Pushes for Poverty Eradication, Urges Youth to Leverage Programs
As Uganda commemorates International Youth Day, Vice President Jessica Alupo has called on young Ugandans to seize economic opportunities and combat poverty, emphasizing that government investments in infrastructure and markets now provide fertile ground for growth. The call comes amid discussions on how effectively youth are utilizing existing empowerment initiatives. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/govt-urges-youth-to-harness-available-programmes-fight-poverty-as-uganda-marks-youth-day-5556586
Uganda joined the global community on August 12th to mark International Youth Day, with a virtual commemoration held in Kampala under the theme “Empowering Young People for Inclusive Growth.” Vice President Jessica Alupo, representing President Museveni, declared that with enhanced infrastructure and expanded markets, young Ugandans and all citizens have no further justification for tolerating poverty.
VP Alupo highlighted the NRM government’s commitment to overcoming historical developmental obstacles, including ideological confusion and inadequate human capital, asserting that the day’s theme aligns with their development agenda. Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Gen Henry Tumukunde, urged a national reflection on the support and investments directed towards the youth, acknowledging their crucial role in national progress.
Dr. Mercy Lakisa, Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs, pointed out that while numerous government empowerment programs exist, their success hinges on the youth’s effective utilization. She specifically questioned the impact of initiatives like the Parish Development Model (PDM) on its intended beneficiaries.
In response, youth leaders, including UNSA President Sheillah Ainembabazi, welcomed plans for mindset-change training at the National Leadership Institute (NALI) in Kyankwanzi, aimed at fostering innovation and job creation. However, concerns were raised by National Youth Leader Hon Jonathan Tayebwa regarding the limited tangible results from programs like the PDM and the Youth Livelihood Programme (YLP), despite significant funding.
Youth representatives collectively advocated for a consolidated approach to youth programs under a single umbrella for better coordination and impact. They also called for increased investment in the youth demographic and more efficient use of government resources.
For more details, visit: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/govt-urges-youth-to-harness-available-programmes-fight-poverty-as-uganda-marks-youth-day-5556586