With over 60% of Uganda’s population under 30, young voters are rising as a powerful force — demanding change, shaping narratives, and challenging traditional political norms.
In a packed room at a community radio station in Eastern Uganda, 24-year-old youth leans into the microphone. His voice is calm but firm.
“We are tired of being used every five years,” he says. “The youth are not just voters. We are the future leaders — and the future is now.”
Across Uganda, a political shift is steadily taking root. Young people — long dismissed as apathetic or easily manipulated — are organizing, questioning, and demanding more from their leaders. They are no longer content to be campaign spectators. They want to be architects of Uganda’s political future.
A Demographic That Can’t Be Ignored
Uganda has one of the youngest populations in the world. According to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), over 60% of the population is under the age of 30. In the 2021 general elections, the Electoral Commission reported a considerable number of registered voters being between 18 and 35.
“Young people are the largest voting bloc,” says political analyst Grace Turyasingura. “If they voted as a united front, they could decide any election in this country.”
This reality is forcing political parties — both old and new — to rethink their strategies. From TikTok campaigns to Twitter Spaces, politicians are trying to meet youth where they are.
Digital Tools, Real Impact
Social media has become a critical tool for mobilization. During the 2021 elections, platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok were flooded with youth-generated political content. The hashtag #WeAreRemovingADictator, linked to opposition figure Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine), trended across borders.
But the government has responded with internet shutdowns, social media taxes, and surveillance. Many young Ugandans see this as an attempt to silence their voices.
“We’re always online,” says a university student. “That’s where we debate, organize, and share information. When they shut us down, it’s not just social media — it’s our democracy being gagged.”
Aspirations and Frustrations
Young Ugandans engage in politics because they want solutions to real problems. Youth unemployment remains a major challenge — standing at over 13%, according to UBOS. Many graduates can’t find meaningful work.
“I studied political science, but I’m working as a boda boda rider,” says 26-year-old Denis in Kampala. “Politics shouldn’t be about who shouts the loudest or who has the most money. It should be about creating jobs, fixing health care, and listening to us.”
Still, frustration is giving rise to action. Young people are participating in guild elections, joining youth-led NGOs, and starting voter education campaigns.
From the Streets to the Ballot Box
In 2020, the arrest of Bobi Wine became a national symbol of youth resistance. His presidential campaign energized millions of first-time voters, even though he didn’t win.
“We felt seen,” says Stella Achen, a 21-year-old student from Gulu. “For once, someone was speaking our language, wearing our shoes, and dancing to our music. Even though he didn’t win, he showed us that change is possible.”
Since then, youth-led initiatives have continued to grow, promoting civic engagement and demanding accountability.
The Power of the Collective Voice
Uganda’s youth vote is no longer a passive demographic. It is engaged, alert, and growing in influence. The road ahead is not without barriers — including voter apathy, systemic manipulation, and limited economic opportunities. But the momentum is building.
As the country moves toward future elections, young Ugandans are making one thing clear: they are ready to lead, not just follow.
“The system may be old,” Joshua Waiswa says, pausing thoughtfully, “but we are young — and we are many.”
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