Xavier Radio Ug News 24 7
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By Ambrose Kwerondawww.mknewslink.com
Youth in Kabale District, under their newly formed organization—the Kabale Youth Empowerment Association—have appealed to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni to appoint ministers closer to their age to better represent young people in Parliament, instead of appointing older individuals who they say may not fully understand youth concerns.The youths raised this concern during the launch of their association called Kabale Youth Empowerment Association with aim to develop association (SACCO) members in financial status and increase household income through sustainable measures and advocate for policy changes that benefit youth employment and entrepreneurship in kabale the function which held at National Teachers’ College (NTC) Kabale.The youth, led by their chairperson Ahimbisibwe Joseph—who also serves in the NRM Youth League (Kabale Municipality) and the National Youth Council expressed concern that the current Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs, Dr. Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, appointed on March 21, 2024, is significantly older than the young people he represents. According to the group, this age gap limits the minister’s ability to fully appreciate and address the challenges faced by the youth.Joseph described it as “shameful” that the Youth Ministry is overseen by someone outside the youth age bracket, arguing that such leaders may not effectively address youth issues. He added that although the president has the constitutional mandate to appoint ministers, the concerns of elected youth leaders are often overlooked.He urged President Museveni to appoint young people especially those already serving in youth leadership roles to positions and programs intended for the youth. Joseph said that youth leaders understand the realities faced by their peers better than older individuals.
Joseph also rallied young people across the Kigezi region to support President Museveni in the upcoming general elections.Meanwhile, Hon. Grace Ankunda Bwesigye, the Independent candidate for Kabale District Woman MP, urged the youth to remain focused on strengthening their association and avoid being divided by politicians.She warned them against accepting money from politicians as a bribe to vote, saying leaders who resort to such acts often lack the capacity to guide and develop the youth.
The guest of honour, Hon. Aja Andrew Baryayanga, the NRM MP flag bearer for Kabale Municipality, encouraged the youth to take full advantage of government empowerment programs as a strategy to overcome poverty.He cited the Parish Development Model (PDM), the Youth Livelihood Programme, and Bona Bagigahare as key initiatives designed to uplift citizens—especially young people—by providing capital, skills, and opportunities for self-employment.Hon. Baryayanga noted that many youths struggle financially not because opportunities are lacking, but because some have not fully utilized the government programs available to them. He called on local leaders to sensitize the youth and ensure transparent access to these funds.He emphasized that empowering young people is essential for driving development in Kabale Municipality and the country at large.
