Youth Leaders in Tororo Demand Inclusion, Responsibility, and Positivity at Belated Youth Day Celebration

A spirited belated Youth Day celebration was held today tuesday 18th november 25 at the Osukuru Town Council offices, drawing youth leaders, political figures, and aspiring candidates to reflect on the role of young people in Uganda’s development. The event was held under the national theme: “Youth Advancing Social Economic Transformation Through Technology and Partnerships.”

The gathering served as a platform for open dialogue, with speakers addressing the pressing challenges facing youth in Tororo District and calling for greater inclusion, innovation, and unity.

Hon Toto Stanislaus  Ofwono in the middle And on  right  Martha mugala with Akello Grace his vice.

Julius Okimwere, a youth leader from Abwanget Ward, raised concerns about the information gap that continues to hinder youth participation in government programs. He emphasized the need for better communication and more deliberate efforts to involve young people in decision-making processes at all levels.

Joel Echiria echoed the call for local development, urging leaders to keep Osukuru Sub-county at the heart of transformation efforts. “Osukuru must not be left behind,” he said, stressing the importance of equitable resource distribution.

Hon. Angura Fredrick, Member of Parliament for Tororo County South, encouraged the youth to embrace government initiatives, particularly the Parish Development Model. He urged them to “fit their shoe” in these programs and to support NRM leaders from the grassroots to the presidency. “Only through consistent leadership can we protect the gains we’ve made and ensure better services,” he said.

Adding a powerful voice to the conversation, Annet Nandala Kimbowa, aspiring Member of Parliament for Tororo Municipality, reminded attendees that leadership is a responsibility, not a privilege. She criticized the culture of blame and negativity, urging young people to focus on solutions rather than divisions. “It’s sad that some people become slow to act and quick to blame. When I stood for MP, pastors were the first to criticize me,” she said.

Kimbowa also challenged the youth to rise above tribal politics, which she said keeps communities trapped in poverty. She pointed to the high rate of school dropouts and the struggles of fatherless children as urgent issues that require collective action. “Let’s stop being jealous. Let’s be positive. Burkina Faso’s President Traoré is a young leader making great strides proof that youth can lead when given the chance,” she added.

The event concluded with a renewed call for unity, innovation, and youth empowerment, with participants agreeing that technology and partnerships are key to unlocking the district’s full potential.