‘We need change, not just as young people but as a country’: Uganda’s youth on 40 years of Museveni | Global development

Hear’s a breakdown of the key themes and facts presented in the provided text, suitable for summarizing or analysis:

Core Argument:

the article details the aftermath of Yoweri Museveni’s controversial seventh presidential win in Uganda, highlighting growing disillusionment and a crisis of faith in the democratic process, particularly among the country’s youth. It explores the shift in political engagement away from traditional ballot-box solutions, fueled by perceived fraud, repression, and the likely succession of Museveni’s son.

Key Points & Themes:

* Contested Election: Museveni won with 70% of the vote, but the election was marred by allegations of fraud and a nationwide internet shutdown.
* Repression & Human Rights: The government is accused of brutal crackdowns on dissent and widespread human rights abuses. Opposition leaders like Bobi Wine and Kizza Besigye have faced arrest, intimidation, and – in Besigye’s case – alleged denial of medical care while imprisoned.
* Succession Concerns: Museveni is widely believed to be grooming his son, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, to be his successor, furthering anxieties about a continued authoritarian rule.
* Youth Disengagement: A central theme is the growing disillusionment among Ugandan youth. They are frustrated by a lack of opportunities (high unemployment, crippling taxes) and a sense that the electoral system is rigged against them.Manny are losing faith in the power of voting to effect change.
* Shifting Tactics: While faith in elections wanes, the article suggests youth aren’t necessarily accepting the system. There’s an implication of a potential shift towards other forms of resistance or political action (though specifics aren’t detailed here).
* Stagnation & Stability: The article presents a duality: Museveni is seen as a guarantor of stability by some, while others view his long rule as representing stagnation.

Key Individuals Mentioned:

* Yoweri Museveni: The current President of Uganda, in power since 1986.
* Bobi Wine: The main opposition leader, received 25% of the vote.
* Kizza Besigye: A prominent opposition leader currently imprisoned.
* Winnie Byanyima: Kizza Besigye’s wife and the Executive Director of UNAids, who has spoken out about his deteriorating health while in prison.
* Gen muhoozi kainerugaba: Museveni’s son and commander of the army, widely seen as the likely successor.
* John Katumba: A young presidential candidate in the 2021 election.
* Dr Shamim Nambassa: A leader in Bobi Wine’s National Unity Platform.
* Norman Turyatemba: Leader with the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC).

Overall Tone:

The tone is critical of Museveni’s regime and expresses concern about the future of democracy in Uganda. It highlights a growing sense of hopelessness and the potential for further political instability.

What are the main reasons Ugandan youth are calling for change after 40 years of Museveni’s rule?

‘We need change, not just as young people but as a country’: Uganda’s youth on 40 years of Museveni

For four decades, Yoweri Museveni has led Uganda. While credited with initial stability following years of turmoil, a growing chorus of young Ugandans are voicing a desire for essential shifts in governance, economic possibility, and social justice. This isn’t simply youthful idealism; it’s a pragmatic assessment of a nation grappling with persistent challenges.

The Economic Realities Facing Uganda’s Youth

Uganda boasts one of the youngest populations in the world, with over 75% under the age of 30. Though, this demographic dividend is threatened by alarmingly high youth unemployment rates.

* Limited Job Opportunities: The formal sector struggles to absorb the influx of young job seekers, leading many into the informal economy where wages are low and job security is non-existent.

* Education Mismatch: A critically important gap exists between the skills taught in educational institutions and the demands of the labour market. This results in a surplus of graduates with qualifications that aren’t readily applicable.

* Poverty & Inequality: Despite economic growth in recent years, wealth remains concentrated in the hands of a few, exacerbating income inequality and leaving many young ugandans trapped in poverty. Access to quality education, healthcare, and other essential services remains unevenly distributed.

* agricultural Dependence: While agriculture employs a large percentage of the population, particularly youth in rural areas, it often lacks modernization and investment, resulting in low productivity and incomes.

Political Disengagement & Calls for Reform

Frustration with the economic status quo is intertwined with concerns about political representation and governance.

* Limited Political Space: Critics argue that the political landscape is increasingly restrictive, with limited space for dissenting voices and self-reliant political activity.

* Age Limits Controversy: The 2017 removal of presidential age limits, allowing Museveni to possibly remain in power indefinitely, sparked widespread protests and fueled accusations of entrenchment.

* Youth Mobilization & NRM Engagement: Recent reports, like the engagement between President Museveni and NRM youth mobilizers in Mbale (January 11, 2025), highlight attempts to connect with young voters. However, many young people express skepticism about the sincerity of these efforts, arguing thay don’t address the root causes of their concerns. Museveni urged these mobilizers to focus on “real change,” acknowledging the need to address daily struggles like poverty.

* Demand for Inclusive Governance: Young Ugandans are increasingly calling for greater inclusivity in decision-making processes, advocating for policies that reflect their needs and aspirations.

The Role of technology & Social Media

Technology, particularly social media, has become a crucial tool for Ugandan youth to organize, express their views, and demand accountability.

* Increased Awareness: Platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram have facilitated the rapid dissemination of information and raised awareness about social and political issues.

* Mobilization & Activism: social media has been instrumental in mobilizing protests and campaigns, providing a platform for young activists to connect and coordinate their efforts.

* Bypassing Customary Media: In a media environment often perceived as controlled, social media offers an alternative channel for independent reporting and commentary.

* Digital Divide: Access to technology and internet connectivity remains unevenly distributed, creating a digital divide that excludes some segments of the youth population.

Beyond Politics: innovation & Entrepreneurship

Despite the challenges, Ugandan youth are demonstrating remarkable resilience and ingenuity, driving innovation and entrepreneurship.

* Tech Startups: A burgeoning tech startup scene is emerging, with young entrepreneurs developing solutions to address local challenges in areas such as agriculture, healthcare, and finance.

* Creative Industries: Uganda’s creative industries,including music,film,and fashion,are thriving,providing employment opportunities and showcasing the country’s cultural vibrancy.

* Social Enterprises: A growing number of social enterprises are tackling social and environmental problems, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable progress.

* Challenges to Entrepreneurship: Access to funding, mentorship, and a supportive regulatory environment remain significant obstacles for young entrepreneurs.

The Future of Uganda: A Generational Shift?

The growing discontent among Ugandan youth represents a potential catalyst for significant change. Whether this translates into meaningful political and economic reforms remains to be seen. The coming years will be crucial in determining whether Uganda can harness the energy and potential of its young population to build a more inclusive, prosperous, and democratic future. The call for “change, not just as young people but as a country” is a powerful message that resonates far beyond the youth demographic, signaling a broader desire for a new chapter in Uganda’s history.