General
Youth Participation key to shaping Uganda’s Political Destiny
The spirit of academic debate was once again rekindled in the Main Hall on 17th November 2015 as Youth from Ugandan Universities gathered to attend a panel discussion organized by the University Forum on Governance (UNIFOG) and International Republic Institute (IRI). Based on the theme Youth Participation in Political Processes: Constraints and Opportunities, the panel discussion was graced by Mr. Tom Malinowski, US Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights and Labor, who also made remarks on Uganda’s key regional role and the US position on foreign elections.
Welcoming participants and panelists to the event, the Director, UNIFOG and also the day’s moderator Mr. Yusuf Kiranda observed that despite constituting nearly half the registered voters, the youth had still failed to make a meaningful and sustainable impact on politics and governance processes. “As young people, we have to use every forum, platform and opportunity to organize ourselves and voice out systematically and structurally what we think are the ideas that we need the political process to respond to” he noted.
In his remarks, The Assistant Secretary of State appreciated Uganda’s role in maintaining regional peace by sending forces to fight Al Shabaab in Somalia as well as protect civilians in three countries from LRA insurgents. He further emphasized the role of good governance in the advancement of a peaceful, prosperous, and democratic Uganda, especially in the run-up to the upcoming elections.
“The United States doesn’t take sides in foreign elections; we have no favorite parties or people. But we do take a stand when it comes to the process,” said Mr. Malinowski. He expressed hope that healthy competition would pave the way for a free and fair election in the form of a free press, respect for freedom of assembly, as well as an impartial military and police force. “We want to see everyone’s voice heard and everyone’s vote to count. The only outcome we want to see is one that Ugandans will believe in” he added.
Mr. Malinowski noted that despite meeting Ugandan youth who had lost faith in the political process, he hoped that all those gathered would take advantage of their large numbers. He noted that this statistical fact presented youth with the perfect opportunity to guarantee that candidates addressed issues that impacted their welfare. With regard to conduct, he urged them to consider the example of Ghanaian youth who played a major role in ensuring that supporters of two rival camps remained calm during the closely contested presidential election of 2008. He however warned that elections are not everything, but life ought to go on after the polls.
“Elections aren’t everything. A ballot, alone, cannot give you justice or a job. But it can give you a say. So I hope you will take part. I hope some of you will run for office, if not now, then someday. If you do, I hope you will play by the rules even if others don’t; that you will listen to your opponents with respect even if they are disrespectful,” advised Mr. Malinowski.
The Assistant Secretary of State then took part in an interactive session where members of the audience raised questions ranging from what the US position would be should the 2016 election outcome be negative, what strategies was the US offering to shape aspirations of politically ambitious youth, and measures to effectively monitor polls using election observers. In his response, Mr. Malinowski reiterated that the role of the US was to promote good election outcomes and not predict any negative ones. He expressed hope that Ugandan leaders at all levels would realize that it is in their best interest to participate in chaos-free elections. He urged the youth to make the most of social media platforms to learn of the best political practices from all corners of the globe, and urged Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) to continue nurturing the youth on the role of good governance. He decried the direct involvement of the armed forces in elections and offered to use the remaining days of his visit to further dialogue with their leadership.
Part of the motivation for the day’s debate was to contribute towards the attainment of structural change whereby the voices of young men and women count in the governance and decision making processes. To help shape the discussion; Mr. Jacob Eyeru-A Student Leader, Ms. Helena Okiring-A Youth and Gender Activist, Mr. Micheal Mugisha-An Assistant Lecturer, Department of Population Studies, Makerere University, Ms. Isabella Akiteng-Project Coordinator, Uganda Youth Network and Ms. Loyola Karobwa-A Member of the Youth Leaders’ Think Tank for Policy Alternatives were assembled as panelists.
In her contribution, Ms. Helena Okiring observed that the youth, by virtue of their numbers represent continuity, opportunity and can therefore make a tangible difference if they actively participate in politics. She however noted with concern the increased monetization and patronage as occasioned by other political entities, which eventually affected how the youth engaged in political activity. She noted that there were growing patterns of youth activism, especially as youth organized themselves around CSOs to make their demands heard.
Mr. Yusuf Kiranda the day’s Moderator then turned the debate to Mr. Jacob Eyeru, tasking him to explain why despite the increased youth organisation, their voices and participation in the political processes was not as profound as expected. In his response, Mr. Eyeru noted that political participation cannot be fostered by most of the CSOs to which some of the youth belong as they tend to be activity-driven. He further shared that youth leagues are more active under political party structures and only heard of around election times. He therefore urged the leadership of the youth leagues especially in political parties, to show more evidence of appropriate representation beyond only participating in the elective process.
Ms. Isabella Akiteng in her contribution on youth participation in the political process noted the glaring lack of civic education, after only half of the audience raised their hands in answer to her question on how many had taken time to pick up their National Identity Cards. She urged the youth to look beyond the surface to the consequences of all messages such as defiance as 
perpetrated by the entities they belong to. With regard to low youth participation, she noted the need for polices to interact more with the demographics of the population so as to effectively align any messages to the appropriate channels of dissemination. She emphasized the need to educate the population on the importance of associating their vote to service delivery at all levels.
With regard to the policy gaps in lieu of political participation, whereas Ms. Loyola Karobwa admitted that they do exist, she argued that a poor attitude towards the process presented an even bigger problem. She urged the youth gathered not to shun participation in elective politics as the entry level has been sent low. She further encouraged youth to shun youth affiliations that sought to label them as “poor” and any other negative connotations.
To help further demystify the mystery of low youth participation, the last panelist of the day Mr. Michael Mugisha sought to create a distinction between participation by attendance and by impactful involvement. He emphasized the need to stress the gains of impactful versus passive participation, such that all those that would hitherto shun the process get fully engaged, mindful that their participation will influence policy implementation. He also called for distinguishing between the different kinds of youth based on their location in rural/urban areas or their economic status, so as to avoid generalizing their would-be interests and aspirations.
The curtains came down on the day’s debate with members of the audience voicing opinions ranging from the resolve to vote and actively participate in more organisational activities away from elections, to adoption of constructive and respectful language during debates. The youth however could not shake the fact that monetization of political participation made it hard for new entrants to actively engage in the electoral processes, but expressed their willingness to keep trying.
Article by Public Relations Office
General
Meet Safali Libia, a Mastercard Foundation Scholar-alumnus who rebuilt his life as a refugee in Uganda
In recognition of International World Refugee Day this year, themed “solidarity with refugees,” the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University proudly highlights the remarkable achievements of our Scholars and alumni with refugee backgrounds. These individuals have shown incredible resilience and determination, making a profound impact in their communities. Today, we are excited to share the inspiring story of Safali Libia, a Scholar-alumnus who, despite facing numerous challenges, successfully joined Makerere University through the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship, graduated, and actively contributes to his community at Kyangwali Refugee Settlement. He launched a transformative social venture project, A Hand for a Refugee, aimed at advancing the agriculture sector and enhancing livelihoods.
I was born in 1997 in Bunagana, Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. In 2013, I fled to Uganda due to the armed conflict in my home country. My life was rebuilt in Kyangwali Refugee Settlement, where I found a new beginning.
Despite the challenges, I worked hard through school and was eventually admitted to Makerere University. There, I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics as a proud Mastercard Foundation Scholar. Accessing education in a peaceful environment changed the trajectory of my life. While at university, I decided to change the narrative about refugees. Too often, we are viewed through a lens of pity rather than potential. In my second year at Makerere, I allocated part of my scholarship stipends to support my family and also fund youth activities in the settlement. I mentored younger students, encouraged girls to stay in school, and advocated for inclusive development policies that recognise refugees as contributors, not burdens.
I also noticed how refugees have limited access to resources and opportunities. Many can only engage in small-scale agriculture or petty trade, yet they have dreams and abilities far beyond that. This realisation led me to co-found ‘A Hand for a Refugee’, a youth-led social enterprise driven by a profound understanding of the urgent need to strengthen the socio-economic well-being of refugee communities. We envision a future where refugees are not solely reliant on aid but are empowered towards self-reliance and can sustainably meet their diverse household needs, including ensuring access to education for their children, providing sufficient and nutritious food, securing safe drinking water, and fostering improved living conditions.
We focus on practical and sustainable solutions, providing comprehensive skilling and training in the two thematic areas of climate-smart agriculture livelihood for refugees and youth/women economic empowerment. Recognising the diverse experiences of refugee farmers, we provide support through comprehensive extension services and market linkage initiatives. These efforts are designed to enhance agricultural productivity, foster economic self-reliance, and promote sustainable livelihoods.
So far, we have trained fellow refugees in modern, climate-smart farming techniques and supported them in growing high-value crops like passion fruits, tomatoes, onions, and cabbages, which could thrive on small plots of land. Through these efforts, we strengthened food security and restored dignity. Our initiative has trained over 50 farmers, empowered women and youth, and demonstrated that refugee-led solutions are practical and sustainable. The Anzisha Prize and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program have recognised my work as a shining example of refugee-led innovation and a testament to whatrefugees can achieve when given the opportunity.
Today, I serve as the General Secretary of the Kyangwali Refugee-Led Organisations Umbrella. I encourage fellow refugee youth to take up leadership roles. We are not helpless; we are resourceful, determined, and resilient. All we need is trust, tools, and opportunity.
On this World Refugee Day, I call upon refugee youth not to wait for change but to be the change. We carry the solutions to our own problems. With education, courage, and unity, we can build more than survival; we can build thriving futures.
Let my journey remind the young people in different settlements that leadership, resilience, and hope can grow even in difficult conditions. I represent a new generation of refugees who do not see themselves as victims of circumstance but as architects of change, ready to rebuild their communities from the ground up. As we commemorate this day, let us celebrate young visionaries for surviving, thriving, and illuminating the way forward for millions of others displaced by conflict and crisis. In this struggle, I have planted seeds of hope, demonstrating that from within the refugee settlements of Africa can emerge the leaders of tomorrow. If I can do it, you can too.
The Principal of Makerere University Business School (MUBS), Prof. Moses Muhwezi, has called upon Ugandans to emulate the life of the late Frank Kalimuzo.
Today, (Friday, June 13, 2025), Makerere University hosted the 2nd Frank Kalimuzo Memorial Lecture, an event that brought together distinguished public servants, University leaders and stakeholders to honor the legacy of the late Frank Kalimuzo, Makerere University‘s first Ugandan Vice Chancellor.
The event held under the theme ‘Building a culture of service in Public Institutions’ highlighted lessons from Frank Kalimuzo’s leadership and provided an opportunity to examine how institutions of higher learning can cultivate these same qualities of service in an era where universities are increasingly called upon to be engines of innovation, drivers of economic development and guardians of knowledge.
In his welcome speech, the Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, noted that the Frank Kalimuzo Annual Public Lecture serves not only as a commemorative event but as a platform for critical reflection on the principles and values that should guide our institutions in an ever-evolving world.
“The late Frank Kalimuzo remains an exemplar of dedicated public service and transformational leadership. As Makerere University‘s first Ugandan Vice Chancellor, he navigated the institution through a critical period of transition with wisdom, integrity, and unwavering commitment to excellence. His legacy extends far beyond his tenure at this university, as the first Head of Public Service, first Ugandan Secretary to Cabinet, and first Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister, he helped lay the foundation for Uganda’s administrative structures,” Prof. Ireeta, noted.
Prof. Ireeta explained that what distinguished Frank Kalimuzo, was not merely his succession of firsts, but his approach to leadership, characterized by humility, service, and an unyielding dedication to the common good.
“As we continue to build on the strong foundation laid by pioneers like Frank Kalimuzo, we must ask ourselves: How do we nurture leaders who serve with integrity? How do we create institutional cultures that prioritize the common good? How do we ensure that our graduates carry forward the values of service and excellence that have defined this university for over a century,” Prof. Ireeta, pondered?
Presenting a paper titled ‘Building a culture of service in Public Institutions’ Prof. Muhwezi, noted that Mr. Kalimuzo was not merely an academic administrator but more importantly, a servant-leader whose life exemplified the highest ideals of public service.
“Mr. Frank Kalimuzo’s life teaches us that public service is not a career choice but a calling, a commitment to using one’s talents, position, and influence to advance the common good. His example shows us that it is possible to maintain integrity, drive innovation, and achieve excellence even within imperfect systems,” Prof. Muhwezi, said.
In his keynote address, Prof. Muhwezi, explained that Mr. Kalimuzo consistently demonstrated that effective public service requires placing institutional objectives above personal ambitions. He added that when faced with unprecedented resistance from various quarters, like academics who questioned his credentials to those who opposed political appointees in university leadership, Mr. Kalimuzo responded not with defensiveness but with dedication to proving himself through service.
To deal with challenges of the 21st century, Prof. Muhwezi, pointed out that the Country needs public institutions that are fit for purpose and leaders who understand that their primary responsibility is to serve, not to be served.
“We need to leave some legacy when we are out of our institutions. We should be brave. As public servants, we learn that Mr. Kalimuzo kept brave even after disappearance of other prominent personalities. As a leader, you should not be the first person to panic,” Prof. Muhwezi, said.
Prof. Muhwezi reminded leaders that they do not need many years to create impact. He explained that although Mr Kalimuzo’s tenure as Vice Chancellor was short-lived, his impact, like a writing on the wall, remains for all to see.
“When given an opportunity to serve, don’t be distracted. Offer skilled leadership execution even in the middle of the storm. As we play around with politics, we should promote peace. As an educated class, we should be good examples. We should appreciate the freedom of speech we enjoy at the moment,” Prof. Muhwezi, noted.
On 23rd June 2022, the University Leadership dedicated the Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility in his honor, that stands as a physical reminder of his contributions. But more importantly, it symbolizes the University’s commitment to ensuring that his values and principles continue to shape generations of students who will go forth to serve Uganda and the world.
During the event, Mr. Kalimuzo’s family expressed gratitude to the University Leadership for always honouring a man who served the University, nation, and its people with distinction.
Addressing guests, Mrs. Esther Kalimuzo, the widow of the late Frank Kalimuzo, noted that although to-date the family has no grave, no explanation and no closure, his silence has not been wasted. On the contrary, it has become a witness, and his disappearance has become a declaration that Uganda has known men who refused to bow.
“After Frank was taken, I was left with our children young, tender, full of questions I could not answer. They were raised with memory instead of presence, with principle instead of protection. And yet, through all the hardship, uncertainty, and pain they endured. They overcame. Today, our children stand tall. They are proud citizens of Uganda, and residents in nations far beyond. They have carried their father’s spirit into classrooms, workplaces, and communities across the world. They embody the values they barely had time to hear him speak, values they absorbed through the echo of his life and the strength of his memory,” orated Mrs Kalimuzo to an audience that listened silently in great admiration.
Delivering the closing remarks, the Chairperson of the University Council, Mrs. Lorna Magara, noted that Makerere’s strategic plan echoes Mr. Kalimuzo’s spirit of innovation and visionary leadership.
“The insights shared today provide a valuable framework for addressing current leadership challenges within African institutions. Makerere University Council is already advancing key recommendations through our Strategic Plan (2020/21–2024/25), with an emphasis on building a responsive and research-driven institution,” Mrs Magara, said.
Mrs. Magara also pointed out that Mr. Kalimuzo’s values deserve continued critical reflections and practical application in leadership development, noting that they remain relevant not just for Makerere’s transformation, but for the renewal of public institutions across the continent.
“As the late Prof. Asavia Wandira reminded us during Makerere’s 90th Anniversary, our historic mission is “to be the Golden Apex of the Education System, consistent with National Development.” This mission remains unfinished. Rising societal challenges from youth unemployment to public health demand the very kind of ethical, visionary leadership Mr. Kalimuzo embodied,” Mrs. Magara concluded.
During the interactive discussions chaired by Mrs. Allen Kagina, the Chairperson of the Technical, Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Council, Mrs Kalimuzo shared with the guests that when her husband went missing, she did all kinds of odd jobs to see her children through School and put food on the table. Hard work and the grace of God, she said, were the hallmarks of how she managed to raise her young family.
Organized in partnership with Makerere University Business School, the 2025 lecture was crowned with a surprise 90th Birthday celebration for Mrs. Esther Kalimuzo. It was all tears of joy as she cut cake with her grandchildren surrounded by family and friends.
Frank Kalimuzo at glance
Born on 24th September 1925, the late Kalimuzo was the first Vice-Chancellor of the newly formed Makerere University away from the colonial and white man’s control. He was appointed on 1st July 1970 by the then President H.E. Apollo Milton Obote. Frank Kalimuzo transformed the institution from a colonial-era university into a truly national institution serving Ugandan society. His brief but impactful tenure established principles of service-oriented leadership that continue to influence public institutional management across East Africa
He held an Overseas Course B from Wadham College in Oxford, UK (1956), an Honors Degree (Economics Major) from the University College of Aberystwyth in Wales (1955), and a BA in Education from Makerere University (1946).
In his brief tenure, courses like Bachelor of Commerce, Bachelor of Forestry, Bachelor of Laws, and Bachelor of Technology were added to the University’s Curriculum. Veterinary Medicine, which was being offered at the University of Nairobi, was also introduced at Makerere University, while Music, Dance, and Drama became diploma subjects. The Main Library and Albert Cook Medical Library were extended in 1972. Later that year, during former President Idi Amin’s rule, Mr. Kalimuzo was picked up by security personnel and was never seen alive again.
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