By Jamillah Kemigisa
In a groundbreaking and bold move, Bunyangabu District has etched its name in Uganda’s political history as the first district to host an NRM Youth League orientation at the district level, revealing hard-hitting truths about the state of youth leadership in the party.
Over 75 youth leaders, elected at subcounty, town council, and district levels, gathered under the theme:
“Raising Ideological, Disciplined and Service-Oriented Youth Leaders for Social Cohesion and Community Transformation.”
But this was no ordinary gathering—it was a wake-up call for a generation of youth leaders, many of whom, according to organizers, lack the ideological depth and discipline required to carry forward the NRM legacy.
“Many youth were elected just because they qualified by age or party registration—not because they understand NRM values,” said Roy Rugumayo Kusemererwa, Chairperson of the NRM Youth League.
“We must urgently mold cadres who are ideologically grounded, disciplined, and service-oriented. The founding generation is aging—it’s our time to step up with vision.”
Ronald Karuhanga, the League’s General Secretary, didn’t mince words either.
“We are used and dumped after elections. There’s no budget for youth activities. We vanish until the next campaign season. That must change.”
Mats Othuman, Chairperson of Kyamukube Town Council, praised the orientation for transforming his mindset.
“This opened our eyes to what real patriotism means and what the NRM expects from its youth leaders.”
Trainer Yakubu Gowan challenged the attendees to think continentally.
“Look at the instability in our region. Youth must channel their energy to fight poverty and build stronger, united communities.”
Local leaders also delivered powerful messages. Deputy RDC Niwamanya Robert warned against destructive behavior like early morning drunkenness: “There is life after politics. Don’t destroy your future and your families.”
District Police Commander David Ndawula called on the youth to become peace ambassadors: “Be leaders who set examples in lawfulness, not chaos.”
And in a moment of reflection, NRM District Chairperson-elect Kato Hussein reminded the young leaders that:
“Leadership is about character. Unity and calmness in crisis define real leadership.”
This event in Bunyangabu could become a national blueprint for regenerating the NRM’s ideological base and securing its continuity through empowered, disciplined, and visionary youth leaders. As Uganda eyes the 2026 general elections, the call is clear: the youth must rise—not just as voters, but as custodians of Uganda’s political future.
