The National Youth Parliament (NYP) is a platform for youth to debate Sub-national and National issues, propose policy reforms and advocate for their interests in a structured and impactful way.

The NYP aims to increase youth participation in policymaking, contributing to youth-focused, inclusive regional and national budgeting processes that cater for youth priority areas in education, health, economic empowerment, and response to the climate crisis, among others, using both digital/innovative platforms and traditional ones.

Through these parliaments, Faraja Africa Foundation seeks to complement the government’s efforts outlined in the National Development Plan III (NDPIII by enhancing youth-led civic participation in policy formulation, budgeting among youth, development partners and government for effective governance at all levels of decision making. The sittings of National Youth parliament are preceded by Sub-National Youth Parliament sessions in seven regions i.e. Central, Western, Northern, Eastern with focus on policy issues that were pertinent to the regions within the thematic scope.

This year, Faraja Africa Foundation is convening the 8th National Youth Parliament under the theme “Youth Advancing Multilateral Cooperation Through Technology and Partnerships”.

Be part of the plenary shaping Uganda’s next generation of policy, innovation, and global collaboration.

ELIGIBILITY

• Age: Be between 18 and 35 years old as of the application deadline.
• Experience: Demonstrate a track record of leadership in development issues such as policy advocacy, community development, human rights, or climate change.
• Residency: Be a resident of one of the East African Community partner states.
• Previous Participation: Have never participated in the East African Youth Parliament.
• Commitment: Be fully committed to participating in digital and on-ground activities of the Youth Parliament.

Professional qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in commerce, Business Administration, Financial Management or Accounting from a recognised University
• Membership of a reputable Professional Accountancy body e.g. ACCA, CIMA or CPA is required .

Experience

• A minimum of 5 years of similar experience in financial management preferably in an NGO setting 3 of these should have been at management level.

How to Apply:

If you are a motivated and experienced finance professional looking for a challenging and rewarding role, please submit your application by email to [email protected], including:

• A cover letter outlining your experience, skills, and motivation for applying.
• A detailed CV outlining your education, experience, and qualifications.
• Contact information for at least three professional references.

Deadline for application is 24^th June 2025 at 5pm

The European Union Delegation to Uganda launched the second cohort of the Youth Sounding Board (YSB) in a vibrant ceremony at the EU Residence in Kololo. The event also doubled as a farewell to the outgoing cohort, who were honored for their impactful contributions to shaping EU-Uganda Development Cooperation.

The EU-Youth Sounding Board aims to ensure that EU Development Cooperation is inclusive, participatory and relevant to the needs of young Ugandans. It also provides a platform for youth to share insights, offer recommendations and co-shape EU external action on its priority areas including Green and Climate Transition, Sustainable and Inclusive Growth and Jobs and Democratic Governance and Social Inclusion.

In his remarks, H.E Jan Sadek, EU Ambassador to Uganda commended the outgoing Youth Sounding Board members for strengthening the links between grassroots youth and the EU, creating a platform for meaningful dialogue, collaboration and youth-led development.

“The EU has a long history of supporting youth participation in Uganda through grants to a tune of 8.5 million Euros, since 2022 to civil society organisations addressing critical issues such as Youth participation in policy, teenage pregnancy and economic empowerment. Notably, the EU through the German Cooperation and Faraja Africa Foundation has supported the National Youth Parliaments which bring youth representatives from village to national level to discuss youth issues” H.E Jan Sadek

Hon. Betty Amongi, Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development, expressed gratitude to the European Union Delegation for its strong and respectful partnership with Uganda through its continued support to trade, civil society peacebuilding and refugee response. She emphasized that initiatives such as the Youth Sounding Board, Ugandans give Ugandans a chance to co-create solutions that respond to their needs. Hon. Amongi also reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to youth empowerment through initiatives such as the Youth Livelihood Programme (YLP), Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga which have equipped many young Ugandans with the skills and financing to improve their livelihoods and contribute to national development.

Dr. Jemba Micheal, the incoming Chairperson of the Board urged the new YSB members to use their voices creatively and relentlessly to share their lived experiences. He thanked the EU for believing that youth participation is not an obligation but a strategic choice and called upon EU representatives and the Board to co-create a space that is inclusive, brave, supportive and relevant to the needs of young Ugandans.

This year’s call for applications attracted an overwhelming response, with over 1,217 applications received from across Uganda. After a rigorous selection process, 20 outstanding young individuals aged between 18 and 30 were chosen to form the second cohort. The newly inaugurated board reflects a rich diversity of backgrounds, regions and expertise, ensuring broad representation of Ugandan youth. The European Union remains committed to fostering meaningful youth engagement and ensuring that young people are empowered as key stakeholders in the country’s development journey.

On April 24, 2025, I was invited as a panelist to the 2nd Guild Leaders’ Summit at Makerere University, hosted by the Guild Leaders Academy. The theme, “Leaders with Integrity: Building Foundations for Good Governance in East Africa,” was a powerful reminder that we, as young people, hold the key to transforming our region. The summit brought together passionate student leaders from across the East African Community with several key government stakeholders from Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, including H.E. Uhuru Muigai Kenyatta, H.E. Jessica Alupo, former Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Ruhakana Rugunda, Justice Simon Byabakama, Hon. Mathew Rukikaire, and European Union Deputy Ambassador Mr. Guillaume Chartrain, among others.

During the summit, several critical topics were discussed, including:

• Institutional Accountability: The Backbone of Good Governance
• Youth Participation in Governance: Transforming Vision into Action
• Youth and Elections: Ensuring Participation and Accountability for a Democratic Future

The theme that echoed louder than any other was “Youth Participation in Democratic Governance”. Across many countries, constitutional reforms have opened the door for youth and women to claim space in leadership, from youth councils to affirmative seats in parliament. These are critical wins. But the deeper question remains: Are these pathways truly equitable? Are our electoral systems fair and inclusive, or do structural barriers still keep us from real power?

While speaking on the second panel, I paused a series of important questions to fellow young people: How do we boldly step into leadership and drive the kind of change our societies desperately need? How do we harness the platforms and privileges we now have to shape a future grounded in justice, integrity, and accountability?

I addressed head-on the barriers that continue to silence and sideline young voices, including tokenism, the exorbitant cost of running for office, and the pervasive threat of sexual violence in politics. These are not abstract challenges, they are lived realities that limit our access to power and corrupt the promise of democracy. As such, I called for urgent electoral reforms, pushing for policies that cap campaign spending, ensuring the political playing field is open to all and not just the privileged few. We must confront the uncomfortable truths that too often go unspoken. Tokenism, sexual violence in politics, and the prohibitive cost of running for office continue to block young people from stepping into leadership. These barriers don’t just limit our participation, they erode the integrity of democracy itself, weakening the foundations of genuine representation and accountability.”

“We cannot continue to let short-term handouts dictate long-term leadership. It’s time to elect leaders with vision, integrity and the courage to enact policies that uplift and transform our nations.”

          Vicky Namugobe, 7th Speaker of the National Youth Parliament

On the growing menace of sexual violence in political spaces,  I said, “We must not remain silent. As the next generation of leaders, we must be unwavering in our stand against exploitation in all its forms. Stronger laws must be enacted and enforced to protect those most vulnerable and to ensure our political spaces are safe, inclusive, and just for everyone.”

To every young changemaker listening or reading this: The time is now. We can no longer afford to sit back and wait for the perfect moment to act. Whether your path is in politics, civil society, entrepreneurship, or advocacy, the opportunity to make a difference is already in your hands. The future belongs to us, but only if we claim it.

The summit concluded with the Kampala Declaration, a bold call to action from the guild leaders across East Africa to prioritise.

• Advancing gender-sensitive policies that empower women and girls to effectively participate in decision-making processes.
• Strengthening civic engagement to ensure active youth participation in governance
• Championing environmentally sustainable development.
• Improving cross-border infrastructure to support trade and integration.

As we reflect on the outcomes of the summit, I leave you with the powerful words of two leaders:

“Leadership can take many forms—not only through elective or public office. As one aspires to leadership positions, they must remember that every decision made today will shape the future for generations to come.”

          Mr. Guillaume Chartrain, EU Deputy Ambassador

“Leadership with integrity is a journey, an ongoing responsibility. It does not begin with a title, nor does it end with applause. It is defined by what it builds and what it leaves behind.”

          Justice Simon Byabakama, Chairperson, Electoral Commission

These words capture the essence of true leadership: one that is principled, people-centered, and enduring. Let us not wait for change. Let us be the change.

Namugobe Vicky

7th Speaker, National Youth Parliament

APPLY FOR EU YSB-UG CALL HERE

The European Union (EU) recognizes the importance of youth engagement, participation, and inclusion as a key aspect to its external action and international partnership agenda. As part of this commitment, the EU seeks to amplify the voices of young people and ensure their perspectives are integrated into the design and implementation of EU policies and programs in partner countries such as Uganda. To advance this agenda, the EU Delegation to Uganda established a Youth Sounding Board (YSB), composed of twenty Ugandan youth. This initiative aims to provide a platform for youth to actively contribute to shaping EU-Uganda relations, fostering a more inclusive and responsive approach to development cooperation.

The YSB is a platform aimed at ensuring the EU development cooperation is more participatory, relevant, and effective for young people in Uganda. The YSB seeks to create opportunities for young people and youth organizations to express their views, connect with each other and the EU Delegation and EU Member States in Uganda. Ugandan youth between 18-30 years are eligible for this call for applications to the Season Two YSB after which a selection will be made that ensures gender, thematic and geographical balance among others.

Check your Eligibility

Faraja Africa Foundation (FAF) is pleased to announce the call for applications for the 6th National Youth Parliament in Uganda. This unique opportunity aims to create a platform for young people to actively participate in policy-making and decision-making processes. We believe in the power of youth voices and their ability to shape a more inclusive and participatory society that addresses their needs and concerns.

Based on FAF’s experience in creating youth spaces like the annual National Youth Parliament for engagement since 2018, we have observed that most youth in Uganda are passionate about advancing social justice and ethnic equality issues to achieve equity and youth inclusion. Unfortunately, they often face challenges as they are perceived as threats and unqualified by those in authority.

This year, the 6th National Youth Parliament aims to address these challenges by providing a practical, reachable, and all-inclusive forum for youth to constructively engage with the legislature.  By actively involving the Parliament of Uganda, Youth MPs, and the youth themselves, we intend to ensure that youth issues are given the attention and consideration they deserve in the policymaking process.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years of age.
• Must be Ugandan citizens residing in Uganda.
• Should demonstrate a strong interest in social justice, ethnic equality, and youth inclusion.
• Must possess good communication and leadership skills.

Important Dates:

Application Deadline: 21st July 2023

Selection and Notification of Participants: 8^th August 2023

Note: Selected participants will be provided with necessary logistical support, including travel and accommodation arrangements during the Youth Parliament.

We look forward to receiving your applications and encourage all passionate and committed young Ugandans to seize this opportunity to be a part of the 6th National Youth Parliament. Together, we can create positive change and ensure that youth voices are heard and valued in the decision-making processes of our nation.

For further inquiries, please contact [email protected]

Application Process:

• Interested individuals are invited to should fill in the form below and submit their applications by July 20^th 2023.
  Full Names *

  Email *

  Age *

  Gender *

  • Male
  • Female
  • Prefer not to say

  Region of Origin in Uganda *

  • Western Uganda
  • Northern Uganda
  • Eastern Uganda
  • Central Uganda

  District of Origin *

  Motivation for Attending the National Youth Parliament 2023 *

  Have you been part of any edition of the National Youth Parliament? *

  • Yes
  • No

  If yes, what recommendation do you have for future editions of the National Youth Parliament

  If No, What are your expectations of the National Youth Parliament 6th Edition?

  Leadership Positions held for the past three years beginning with current *

  Which of these categories would you put yourself in? *Uganda National Students AssociationNational Youth CouncilYouth in civil SocietyUniversity Guild Student LeaderYoung EntreprenuerPolitical Party Youth Leader

  What social media platforms are you on and how many followers do you have on each?

  Phone

  Submit

The European Union (EU) considers engagement with youth and youth participation and inclusion essential for its external action and international partnerships agenda.  The aim is to ensure that the voices of young people are heard and taken into account, including when shaping and implementing EU programmes and policies in partner countries like Uganda.  To advance this agenda, Faraja Africa Foundation, with support from the EU Delegation to Uganda, aims at setting up the Youth Sounding Board Uganda (YSBU) with a membership of twenty Ugandan youth.  Perspectives and needs of young people will be considered during the EU and Member States’ decisions making processes; in their policies, programs, and services that affect them within the programming of the European Union and member states.

Furthermore, the YSBU seeks opportunities for youth networks, organizations, opinion leaders, and more to express their views and connect the EU Delegation and EU Member States in Uganda.  Ugandan youth between 18-30 years are eligible by this call for applications to the YSBU, after which a selection will be made that ensures gender, thematic and geographical balance, among others.

Therefore, Faraja Africa Foundation, with support from the European Union, is excited to announce that we are now accepting applications for our Youth Sounding Board in Uganda.  We are looking for young people between the ages of 18-30 who are passionate about making a positive impact in their communities and eager to have their voices heard on important and topical issues across the sector.  The Youth Sounding Board members will be selected based on their commitment to community service and willingness to work collaboratively with others.

To APPLY, please take note of the following;

1. Should be a Ugandan (female or male) between 18 – 30 years of age.
2. Should have a demonstrated interest in the sustainable development of the country and the sustainable development goals
3.  Should be part of an organization (optional)
4.  Should have an active social media presence.
5.  Should distinguish between what is a must from what is an advantage.
6. Follow Faraja Africa Foundation; Twitter – @EUinUG, @FarajaAfricaFdn | Like Page on Facebook – Faraja Africa Foundation | Follow on Instagram – @farajaafricafdn and on LinkedIn-Faraja Africa Foundation

• Submit a completed online application form (CLICK TO APPLY)
• Submit your resume or CV

The deadline for applications is 18^th April 2023 at 11 pm.  We will be in touch with selected applicants to schedule an interview.  If you have any questions about the application process or the Youth Sounding Board in general, please don’t hesitate to contact us at [email protected] +256 (0) 39-488-4176.

We look forward to hearing from you and working together to impact our communities positively!

CLICK TO APPLY

During the International Women’s month, Faraja Africa Foundation is proud to commemorate this special month under the theme “DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality.” At Faraja Africa Foundation, we believe that innovation and technology have the power to break down barriers and promote gender equality for all.”

DigitALL: Technology as a Tool for Gender Equality:

Technology has revolutionized the world we live in, connecting people across the globe and making information more accessible than ever before. At Faraja Africa Foundation, we believe that technology can be a powerful tool in promoting gender equality.

With the rise of digital platforms, we can now connect with people from all corners of the world, share ideas, and collaborate on solutions to complex challenges. By using digital platforms, we can empower women and girls to participate in the global economy and improve their quality of life.

 At Faraja Africa Foundation, we recognize the potential of technology to drive social change and promote gender equality. Through our programs, we are equipping young women with the skills and knowledge they need to harness the power of technology for positive change.

Mentoring Young Women in Policy Advocacy through E-Diplomacy:

Policy advocacy is an essential tool for promoting gender equality. At Faraja Africa Foundation, we believe that policies and laws can have a significant impact on the lives of women and girls, and we are committed to advocating for policies that promote gender equality and empower women.

Through our mentoring programs, we are encouraging e-diplomacy using digital platforms like social media. We are training young women to use social media effectively to advocate for policies that promote gender equality and empower women. We are also connecting them with policymakers and decision-makers to ensure that their voices are heard.

Mentoring and Training Young Women Social Entrepreneurs:

Entrepreneurship is an essential driver of economic growth and social change. At Faraja Africa Foundation, we believe in the power of social entrepreneurship to promote gender equality and drive social change.

Through our mentoring and training programs, we are equipping young women with the skills and knowledge they need to launch and grow successful social enterprises. We are also using digital platforms to advertise and grow their businesses, helping them reach a wider audience and achieve greater impact.

Giving Young Women a Platform to Advocate for Inclusive Policies:

At Faraja Africa Foundation, we believe that young women have a vital role to play in shaping the policies that affect their lives. We are working to give young women a platform to advocate for policies that promote gender equality and social justice.

Through our townhall meetings and youth parliament, we are providing young women with the skills and knowledge they need to engage in policy-making and advocate for their rights. We are using digital platforms to amplify their voices, making sure that their messages reach a wider audience and have a greater impact.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day under the theme “DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality,” we are proud to be working towards a world where women and girls have equal access to resources and opportunities. At Faraja Africa Foundation, we believe that technology and innovation can be powerful tools in driving social change and promoting gender equality.

Through our programs, we are empowering young women to become advocates for gender equality and social justice. We are committed to mentoring and training young women in policy advocacy, social entrepreneurship, and inclusive policy-making, and we look forward to continuing our work towards a more equitable and just society for all.

Written by:

Advocacy Officer

Uganda is a country with a vibrant youth population that has the potential to drive positive change in the society. Unfortunately, young people are often excluded from decision-making processes in civil society. In order to create a more equitable and inclusive society, it is crucial to increase youth involvement in decision making processes.

Creating Youth-Friendly Spaces

Namutebi Ruth presenting a petition about youth unemployment in the National Youth Parliament

Creating safe and welcoming spaces for young people is essential in increasing their participation in civil society. These spaces can be both physical and virtual, providing young people with the opportunity to share their thoughts and ideas. This can be achieved through community centers, youth-led organizations, or online platforms.

Providing Training and Capacity Building

Many young people lack the necessary skills and knowledge to participate in decision-making processes. Providing them with training and capacity building opportunities can help to develop their skills and confidence. This can involve programs that focus on leadership, advocacy, public speaking, and organizational skills.

Engaging with Youth-led Organisations

There are many youth-led organisations in Uganda such as Faraja Africa Foundation that are already working on issues that are important to young people. Engaging with these organizations and supporting their work can help to build a stronger and more inclusive civil society that reflects the needs and priorities of young people.

Fostering Intergenerational Dialogue

Second Deputy Prime Minister in a group photo with the Young leaders who attended the Busoga subregional Youth Parliament

In many cases, there is a disconnect between young people and older generations in civil society. Fostering intergenerational dialogue can help to bridge this gap and ensure that the perspectives and experiences of all generations are taken into account in decision-making processes.

Encouraging Youth Representation in Decision-making Bodies

One of the most effective ways to increase the inclusion of young people in decision-making processes in civil society is to ensure that they are represented in decision-making bodies. This can be done through the creation of youth advisory boards or by ensuring that young people are included in existing decision-making bodies. For-example; The European Union (EU) in Uganda is creating a European Union Youth Sounding Board coordinated by Faraja Africa Foundation in-order for the young people to be part of the decision making processes in the EU. This will be two year project that will entail building the capacity of young people to mobilise resources ,advocacy et al while using these skills while interacting with the EU on behalf  of the young people. (more details to follow..)

Empowering young people and increasing their involvement in decision-making processes in civil society is essential in creating a brighter future for Uganda. By creating youth-friendly spaces, providing training and capacity building, engaging with youth-led organizations, fostering intergenerational dialogue, and encouraging youth representation in decision-making bodies, we can ensure that young people have a voice and a stake in the future of Uganda. Together, we can build a more democratic, equitable, and effective society.

Compiled by Kanyesigye Edna- Advocacy Officer

The education system in Uganda has seen significant growth in recent years. The government has made efforts to increase access to education, particularly for girls and children in rural areas. Additionally, enrolment in primary and secondary education has increased significantly. However, the quality of education remains a challenge, with issues such as teacher shortages and inadequate funding. There have also been efforts to improve the vocational and technical education system to better align it with the needs of the workforce. Overall, while there has been progress, there is still work to be done to ensure that all Ugandans have access to a high-quality education.

Civil society organizations (CSOs) have played an important role in improving the education system in Uganda. CSOs have been involved in various initiatives to increase access to education, improve the quality of education, and promote equity and inclusion. Some examples of the roles that CSOs have played in the education sector in Uganda include:

• Advocating for policies and practices that support access to education for all, particularly for marginalized groups such as girls and children from rural areas.
• Providing additional support to schools and communities, such as through teacher training, school improvement programs, and provision of educational materials.
• Monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of government policies and programs related to education.
• Empowering communities to take an active role in the education of their children, by involving parents and other community members in decision-making and planning processes.
• Providing alternative forms of education, such as non-formal education or vocational training, to reach out-of-school children or those who are not able to access formal education.

Overall, CSOs have played a vital role in complementing the government efforts to improve the education system in Uganda and have made significant contributions towards increasing access to education and the quality of education.