State Minister Designate Balaam Ateenyi Barugahara, recently appointed to oversee Youth and Children Affairs in the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, has pledged to advocate for the release of National Unity Platform (NUP) youth members who are reportedly imprisoned on political grounds. Speaking on Monday morning after his vetting by Parliament’s Appointments Committee, chaired by Speaker Anita Among, Barugahara emphasized his commitment to addressing the concerns raised by the youth.
Following his appointment, Barugahara disclosed that he had received a letter from a group of NUP youths, beseeching him to intervene in securing the release of their fellow members. Expressing dissatisfaction with the support provided by the NUP leadership, these youths sought assistance from the newly appointed minister. In response, Barugahara assured them of his dedication to their cause and vowed to work towards ensuring the release of the detained individuals.
In addition to advocating for the rights of imprisoned youths, Barugahara outlined his plans to tackle other pressing issues affecting young people in Uganda. He underscored his determination to combat teenage pregnancy, emphasizing the importance of holding perpetrators accountable under the law. Furthermore, the minister identified youth unemployment as a critical challenge that demands immediate attention. He pledged to prioritize initiatives aimed at creating employment opportunities and empowering young people to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development.
Addressing misconceptions about his role in government, Barugahara clarified that his focus extends beyond partisan interests. He emphasized that his appointment does not signify an intention to recruit youths for any particular political project. Instead, he reiterated his commitment to serving all young people, irrespective of their political affiliations. Emphasizing the non-partisan nature of his approach, Barugahara invited young Ugandans to join initiatives such as the MK Project, a civic organization dedicated to fostering patriotism and national unity.
The Appointments Committee also vetted several other recently appointed ministers in President Museveni’s cabinet reshuffle. Among those scrutinized were Gen Wilson Mbasu Mbadi, Dr. Kenneth Omona, Lillian Aber, Phiona Nyamutoro, and Florence Nambozo Wamala. Their confirmation hearings underscored the government’s ongoing efforts to address key challenges and prioritize the needs of various sectors within Ugandan society.
As Barugahara assumes his new role, his pledges to advocate for imprisoned youth and address systemic issues facing young people signal a renewed commitment to youth empowerment and social justice in Uganda. With his appointment, there is hope for positive change and meaningful progress in addressing the concerns of the nation’s youth population
