In a spirited end-of-year council sitting, Busoga youths, represented by the Busoga Kingdom Youth Council (BKYC), convened to discuss transformative plans for the year 2024. The gathering, held at the kingdom headquarters in Bugembe, Jinja city, saw enthusiastic debates on key issues aimed at empowering the youth in the Busoga region.
Chaired by Owekitiibwa Paul Munana, the council brought together representatives from each of the eleven chiefdoms of Busoga. With a focus on collective development, the youth envisioned mobilizing their peers for skill development workshops, empowering them with vocational abilities for self-employment. The council plans to champion causes such as blood donation and raise awareness about critical health issues like cancer, HIV/AIDS, and sickle cell disease.
Hussein Salim Magumba, the chairperson of BKYC, outlined plans to implement the Kyabazinga’s Green Busoga campaign, emphasizing tree planting, waste management, and eco-friendly practices. Additionally, the group resolved to organize inter-children sports tournaments, cultural festivals, and marathons to foster unity and promote talents and culture among the youth.
Magumba stated, “This council shall gather challenges affecting our youth through monthly forums in each chiefdom to inspire and address their challenges,” highlighting the importance of education outreach programs in collaboration with schools for scholarships.
Officiating at the event, HRH Samuel Nkuutu Zilamuzaale Menha, the chief of Princes (Isaabalingila) of Busoga kingdom, commended BKYC for its vision of empowering the youth for sustainable development. He encouraged unity among the youth and stressed the need for transformative projects, including initiatives like cassava plantations that could be in high demand.
Menha, who serves as the Royal Chief of Bugweri Chiefdom, urged the youth to champion education, believing that Busoga has the potential to produce influential individuals contributing to the country’s development.
Veronica Kagona, the kingdom state minister for Youth and Information, Communication, and Technology (ICT), urged the youths to implement developmental initiatives and avoid practices that undermine culture. Recognizing the youth as the leaders of tomorrow, Kagona emphasized their immediate and energetic role in various activities crucial for the kingdom’s progress.
