As we commemorate International Youth Day 2025, young people across Uganda are gathering to reflect on and celebrate the significant achievements under the leadership of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) and its founding father, His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
This day provides an opportunity to highlight the progress made and acknowledge the ongoing challenges that require our collective attention.
The NRM government has implemented several initiatives that have directly impacted the lives of Ugandan youth, particularly in key sectors such as governance, education, health, economic empowerment, and national security.
1. Leadership and Governance
The NRM has created robust platforms for youth participation in leadership and governance. Recognizing young people as a cornerstone of the nation’s future, the party has established youth leadership structures at every administrative level.
The National Youth Council Act, for instance, has empowered young people to actively participate in decision-making, with youth representatives elected to Parliament from every region. The recent appointment of a National Female Youth MP to a ministerial position further demonstrates President Museveni’s commitment to integrating youth voices into the highest levels of government.
2. Education
Before 1986, access to education was limited due to political instability, economic hardships, and regional disparities. The NRM government has systematically addressed these challenges. With the restoration of peace and stability, the introduction of Universal Primary Education (UPE) and Universal Secondary Education (USE) has made quality education more accessible and affordable for all Ugandans.
This has significantly reduced illiteracy rates and paved the way for a more knowledgeable and skilled workforce. Today, Ugandan institutions graduate thousands of students annually in various disciplines, a testament to the expansion of educational opportunities.
3. Health
The NRM’s focus on public health has drastically improved the well-being of the population, particularly the youth. The government’s comprehensive immunization programs, introduced under President Museveni’s leadership, have been instrumental in combating killer diseases.
This initiative, which provides healthcare services from infancy up to five years, has dramatically reduced child mortality rates and ensured that the current generation of youth is healthier and more resilient. The rapid growth of Uganda’s population is a direct result of these successful health interventions.
4. Economic Transformation
Recognizing the need for economic empowerment, the government has launched several programs aimed at equipping young people with the resources to start their own enterprises. The Youth Livelihood Programme (YLP) and the Parish Development Model (PDM) are prime examples.
The PDM, which allocates 30% of its funds to youth, provides capital for agricultural and business ventures. These initiatives underscore the NRM’s dedication to fostering self-reliance and creating a prosperous future for the youth.
5. National Security
The NRM government has fostered an inclusive national security framework. The recruitment process for the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) is conducted nationwide, ensuring that it is representative of all tribes and religions.
This merit-based approach has eliminated the tribalism and nepotism that plagued previous armies. The UPDF is now a professional, national force dominated by young people, reflecting the inclusive vision of its leadership.
6. Science and Technology
The government has prioritized the development of science and technology, encouraging youth innovation and entrepreneurship. The establishment of factories like the Kiira Motors Corporation, which produces the Kayoola electric buses, provides employment for many young innovators and engineers.
Furthermore, young Ugandans are actively involved in developing new technologies, drugs, and plant species, contributing to the country’s scientific and technological advancement.
Addressing the Challenge of Unemployment
Despite these remarkable achievements, the issue of youth unemployment remains a significant challenge. The rapid increase in the educated population has created a gap between the number of qualified graduates and available job opportunities. This is a complex, cross-cutting issue that requires a multi-faceted approach.
We are confident that under the continued able leadership of His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and the strategic guidance of the Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the government will continue to prioritize creating sustainable employment for the youth. We believe that with focused efforts, the challenges facing young people today will soon become a thing of the past.
Written by Tukwatanise Musa
General Secretary, NRM Youth League – Sheema District
Assistant Resident District Commissioner
A Biologist
