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 honoured 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, EU Ambassador Jan Sadek 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.

European Union Delegation to Uganda

“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," Ambassador Sadek said. 

Hon. Betty Amongi, Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development, expressed gratitude to the European Union for its strong and respectful partnership with Uganda through its continued support to trade, civil society, peace building and refugee response. She emphasized that initiatives such as the Youth Sounding Board, 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. 

European Union Delegation to Uganda

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. 

European Union Delegation to Uganda

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. 

European Union Delegation to Uganda

The EU remains committed to fostering meaningful youth engagement and ensuring that young people are empowered as key stakeholders in the country’s development journey.