With campaigns for the 2026 general elections already underway, Uganda’s two main parties — the ruling NRM and the opposition NUP — are both pitching the creative economy as a solution to youth unemployment. But questions remain: can they deliver?
NRM Manifesto
The NRM has promised to invest heavily in young people with talent, highlighting:
* Copyright protection for artists.
* A revolving fund for creatives.
* Homes for artists and innovation hubs.
* Modern theatres and exhibition spaces.
* Shs 1.4 trillion for new stadia and sports facilities.
Skepticism: Many Ugandans argue that while these promises sound good, NRM has made similar pledges before but delivery has been slow. They ask: What’s different this time?
NUP Manifesto
NUP is going bigger, targeting 10 million new jobs by 2032 through sports and the arts:
* A National Creative Industries Fund.
* Fast-tracked copyright and IP law.
* Annual festivals and cultural tourism.
* Upgraded sports facilities and grassroots clubs.
* A rebranded Uganda as a global culture hub.
Skepticism: Some doubt whether NUP, even with fresh ideas, has the capacity or resources to achieve such ambitious targets. Critics warn these could remain “dreams on paper.”
The Verdict?
NRM promises stability and infrastructure, but is haunted by questions of delivery. NUP promises bold transformation, but faces doubts about capacity. As rallies and campaigns heat up, Ugandans will be asking one key question: who can truly turn creativity into jobs?
