The Hoima City Youth Council Chairperson Richard Tumwesige has unveiled a five-point priority agenda, placing transparency and accountability at the top of his leadership commitments.
Tumwesige made the remarks after taking oath of office at Hoima City offices in a ceremony witnessed by Hoima City Mayor Brian Kaboyo.
Shortly after his swearing-in, Tumwesige pledged to foster a strong working relationship with city leaders to advance the interests of young people.
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"We represent the young people. We are open to learning; guide us so that we can do well but also be better leaders of tomorrow. We cherish unity and good working relationship with our leaders," he said.
He emphasized that youth inclusivity in all city programs would be central to his tenure. Tumwesige also committed to working with other youth leaders to lobby for expanded services and programs benefiting young people, including university scholarships and loan schemes.
He noted that many youths are not adequately sensitized about their rights and available opportunities.
As part of his agenda, he intends to spearhead civic education initiatives to empower young people to understand their rights and confidently advocate for their interests.
Key to his manifesto, he said, will be strict accountability for funds allocated to youth programs and transparency in how such resources are utilized.
"The major problem is always accountability and transparency. I have a name to protect. Where they give me money for the youth, it will get to them, but I will also follow up with the city leaders to ensure that what belongs to the youth indeed they get it," he noted.
The outgoing Youth Council Chairperson Sylvia Kaahwa said her five years in office had given her invaluable leadership experience through engagement with various stakeholders.
She advised Tumwesige to prioritize unity and maintain long-term ambitions to avoid compromising on issues affecting young people.
"When you are focused on a great future, you will keep on track since you want a clean name. So know your roles and execute them with honesty," she guided.
Tumwesige will be deputized by Brian Atugonza, who also represents persons with disabilities. Other members of the executive include Agnes Birungi as Secretary for Publicity, Collins Alinda as Secretary for Finance, Gloria Namakula as Secretary for Women Affairs, and Talent Akampulira as General Secretary.
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Mayor Kaboyo urged the youth leaders to identify role models and emulate exemplary leadership traits.
"You can only be a good leader if you are inspired and follow what a good leader does. We have many good leaders across the country; pick one and follow them through how they act, behave and address people and you will never be the same," he said.
Kaboyo further advised the youth leaders to avoid confrontational approaches and instead seek clarification and collaboration with those in authority to ensure their ideas are embraced.
"If you take the path of good working relations with technical and political leaders, life will be easy and they will always bring you on board to put in insights for the young people. But if you come as a fighter, they will sideline you and fail you in your work," he said.
