By Steven Enatu
Soroti, Uganda – August 12, 2024
In a remarkable honor, Soroti District has been chosen to host this year’s National Youth Day celebrations, as exclusively revealed by National Youth Council Chairperson Jacob Eyeru. This year’s event marks the 30th anniversary of the National Youth Day, promising to be a momentous occasion for the youth of Uganda.
“I wish to extend my congratulations to the young populace of Soroti and Teso for this honor. The specific location for the event has not yet been finalized, as various security considerations need to be addressed. The day will be graced by the presence of the fountain of honor as the esteemed chief guest, and leading up to the event, numerous preparatory activities will be organized,” Eyeru stated.
The celebration will not only be a day of festivity but also a platform for youth empowerment. Eyeru emphasized that the youth will undergo training within a structured thematic program. “Soroti is home to a significant number of adolescent mothers, and as such, certain services do not reach them. We will implement activities that are tailored to their needs, including donations within the districts and engaging them in productive endeavors,” he elaborated.
This year’s event will convene over 500 youth leaders from various regions for a two-day conference in Soroti, promising substantial economic benefits for the local community. The youth will have the unique opportunity to directly engage with their leaders, particularly the head of state, who will preside as the chief guest. “It will be an honor for me to address the president on matters that impact the youth in our region. There are numerous challenges affecting the young population in our area,” Eyeru expressed.
Highlighting the inadequate road infrastructure hindering the entrepreneurial efforts of the youth, Eyeru stressed the necessity of well-paved roads to facilitate efficient transportation and minimize time wastage. He urged the youth across Teso to lead responsible lives by actively participating in developmental initiatives that uplift their community.
Eyeru also underscored the importance of acquiring skills that can positively transform the lives of the youth, cautioning against being manipulated for political purposes, especially as the nation approaches the 2026 elections.
As preparations for the National Youth Day ramp up, Soroti District stands poised to showcase the potential and resilience of Uganda’s youth, making this year’s celebration a historic milestone.