General
Youth Empowerment Takes Center Stage at Julius Nyerere Youth Festival 2025
On April 15th and 16th 2025, leaders from various sectors, students, and distinguished guests converged at Makerere University for the Julius Nyerere Youth Festival 2025—a vibrant platform designed to inspire, educate, and empower the next generation of leaders.
Held under the theme, “Our Heritage, Our Voices: Culture, Innovation, and Servant Leadership,” the festival celebrated the enduring legacy of Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere, founding President and Father of the Nation of the United Republic of Tanzania. It also marked the commemoration of his 103rd birthday, celebrated in style through a dynamic, youth-driven programme.
Organized by the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre (JNLC) at Makerere University in partnership with the Uganda Management Institute (UMI), the two-day event featured a rich blend of intellectual exchange, cultural expression, and leadership development activities. Highlights included:
- A powerful keynote address: “Shaping the Next Generation of Servant Leaders: Mwalimu Nyerere’s Legacy”
- Panel discussions on Servant Leadership for Societal Transformation and Youth Voices for Societal Change
- Cultural showcases, storytelling inspired by Nyerere’s teachings, and poetry sessions celebrating African unity and Pan-Africanism
- A Youth Innovation & Entrepreneurship Workshop, Innovation Pitch Challenge, Mentorship Walk (Walking in Nyerere’s Footsteps), and conversations on mental health and wellbeing
Honoring a Legacy of Servant Leadership
Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, born on 13th April 1922, is revered for his humility, deep sense of purpose, and unyielding commitment to African liberation and unity. As a young scholar, he studied at Makerere University—then the only tertiary institution in East Africa—where he earned a teaching diploma and began developing the ideas that would shape his Pan-African vision. Throughout his life, Nyerere championed equity, youth empowerment, gender equality, African culture, and education for sustainable development.
In her remarks, Dr. Nansozi Suzie Muwanga, Executive Director of JNLC, noted that the Centre was founded to advance Nyerere’s values by preparing a new generation of servant leaders. Established on 6th October 2018 through the initiative of H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, JNLC runs programs that empower youth to harness their potential, preserve cultural heritage, and develop innovative solutions to today’s societal challenges.
“Mwalimu Nyerere was a passionate believer in the role of young people in shaping Africa’s destiny,” Dr. Muwanga affirmed. “This festival reaffirms that belief.”
Reaffirming Regional Unity and Youth Potential
In his address, H.E. Maj. Gen. Paul Simuli Kisesa, High Commissioner of the United Republic of Tanzania to Uganda, highlighted the festival’s role in recognizing youth as active agents of change, capable of linking Nyerere’s timeless vision to contemporary progress. He encouraged young people to embrace their cultural identities while harnessing innovation to advance their communities.
H.E. Kisesa reminded students that Nyerere’s Pan-Africanist ideals took root while he was at Makerere and urged them to connect with the same spirit of purpose and service. He emphasized the strong ties between Uganda and Tanzania and cited infrastructure projects like the East African Crude Oil Pipeline as modern expressions of Nyerere’s Pan-African vision.
“This partnership reflects a dedication to regional unity—empowering young people to contribute to a prosperous East Africa,” he said, pledging continued support to JNLC to ensure Nyerere’s legacy endures.
Makerere University: A Century of Leadership and Excellence
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Dr. Julius Kikooma, Director of Graduate Training, celebrated Makerere’s 103-year legacy as a cradle of African leadership. Prof. Nawangwe reaffirmed the University’s commitment to nurturing the next generation through education that builds wisdom, purpose, and service.
“Since its founding in 1922, Makerere has grown into one of Africa’s most prestigious institutions,” he noted. “We are proud to have educated presidents, scholars, innovators, and change makers across the continent—including Mwalimu Nyerere himself.”
He added that the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre continues to provide a nurturing environment for young leaders to grow in character, competence, and commitment to society.
A Call to Action
Mr. Andrew Tumusiime, a Board Member and representing the Chair of the Board of Directors – Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre Dr. Kasozi Mulindwa, emphasized the Centre’s dedication to amplifying youth voices and building their leadership capacity. “The Centre is committed to listening to young people’s aspirations and walking with them toward a better future,” Mr. Tumusiime said.
Acknowledging concerns about the future, he urged youth to take meaningful action now and shape a legacy they can be proud of. “The time to lead is now,” he stated. “Together, we can build the Africa that Nyerere envisioned—united, innovative, and just.”
Reigniting Nyerere’s Spirit Through Youthful Leadership and Collective Action
The Chairperson of the JNLC Board of Directors, Dr. Saturninus Kasozi-Mulindwa, set the tone for the second day of the Festival with a powerful message: “Today is about re-igniting Mwalimu Julius Nyerere’s spirit through your voices as young people—through our culture, our innovations, and your leadership.”
Dr. Kasozi-Mulindwa emphasized the richness and resilience of African heritage, rooted in unity, dignity, and communal responsibility. “Your voices matter. Young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are the leaders of today,” he declared.
Drawing attention to the interactive nature of the festival, he encouraged participants to actively engage in the panel discussions, exhibitions, innovation showcases, and intergenerational dialogues. These platforms, he noted, are essential for amplifying youth voices, challenging injustices, and shaping narratives grounded in African identity and values.
“This is your moment,” he concluded, “to not only dream of change but to drive it—to question, to learn, to lead, and to inspire transformation.”
Building on this foundation, Dr. James Nkata, Director General of Uganda Management Institute, represented by Associate Professor Gerald Karyeija, echoed the ethos of servant leadership. He called on youth to prioritize critical pillars such as education, healthcare, African unity, and collective responsibility.
“Be the custodians of our heritage,” he urged. “Build strong, self-reliant communities grounded in education, family, and moral leadership.” He concluded with a rallying call: “Let us honour Nyerere’s legacy by working for a brighter future for ourselves, our communities, and our continent. Go and become servant leaders.”
The keynote address that followed served as a compass for the rest of the day’s discussions.
Keynote Address: Shaping the Next Generation of Servant Leaders
In a keynote address titled “Shaping the Next Generation of Servant Leaders: Mwalimu Nyerere’s Legacy,” Ms. Eva Mulema Matsiko, Chief of Party at RTI International, challenged young leaders to embrace excellence and purpose-driven leadership.
“Harness every opportunity to the best of your advantage,” she advised. “Like Mwalimu Nyerere, whose remarkable list of accomplishments and honorary doctorates show us that excellence is within reach if we are willing to pursue it.”
Ms. Matsiko reflected on Nyerere’s early days at Makerere University, where he nurtured his Pan-Africanist ideals. She called on the youth to define their values and ensure that their actions align with their words.
“Mwalimu Julius Nyerere did not just speak about unity and justice—he lived it. He sacrificed personal comfort to realize his ideals. That is the kind of selfless leadership we must emulate,” she said.
She highlighted Nyerere’s commitment to youth and women empowerment, African liberation movements, and indigenous culture—especially his promotion of Kiswahili as a unifying language.
Quoting African Development Bank President Akinwumi Adesina, she stressed the urgency of self-reliance: “Africa must chart its future relying not on the benevolence of others, but on its own determination.”
She concluded with a call to action for both current leaders and mentors: “Model the values you wish to see in the next generation. Provide real opportunities for youth to lead. Only then can we cultivate servant leaders in the true spirit of Mwalimu Nyerere.”
Panel I: Servant Leadership for Societal Transformation
The first panel discussion, “Servant Leadership for Societal Transformation”, chaired by Ms. Marion Kirabo, former Guild Minister for Gender at Makerere University, featured passionate insights from Ms. Josephine Aanyu, Mr. Gracious Kadondi, and Mr. Kenny Ronnie Rubanga.
Mr. Kenny Ronnie Rubanga, Guild President at UMI, emphasized the urgency of unity and ethical leadership. “We must unite or perish,” he said, quoting Nyerere. He called on the youth to rise above tribalism, uphold integrity, and advocate for policies that are people-centered.
“Uganda has excellent policies, but they are undermined by poor implementation—often by us,” he noted. “Before blaming others, assess yourself and your peers.”
Ms. Josephine Aanyu, former Guild Speaker at Uganda Christian University, emphasized the importance of accountability and modesty in leadership. She urged young leaders to avoid extravagance and instead focus on transparent management of entrusted resources.
Addressing unemployment, she encouraged youth to form collaborative teams and generate impactful, community-based solutions. “We are brilliant and creative. Let’s use our collective energy to create jobs and opportunities,” she said.
Ms. Gracious Kadondi, the 91st Vice Guild President of Makerere University, highlighted ethical leadership as a combination of empathy, transparency, and public service. She advocated for mentorship programs to nurture a new generation of ethical leaders and emphasized the need to connect leadership to real societal needs.
Panel II: Youth Voices for Social Change
The second panel discussion, “Youth Voices for Social Change”, moderated by Dr. Gardner Rwakiseta Herbert, Programme Manager at JNLC, featured Mr. Robert Maseruka, Ms. Charity Nduhura, and Ms. Rose Nabwire.
Mr. Robert Maseruka, 89th Guild President of Makerere University, emphasized equity and inclusion in leadership, citing the Makerere Guild Constitution’s provisions for women and persons with disabilities.
He urged young people to reflect on their life’s purpose: “Great leaders—whether Jesus Christ, Napoleon, or President Museveni—discovered their purpose early. What is yours? What are you willing to stand—or even die—for?”
The panel continued with more reflections on grassroots activism, the importance of youth representation in governance, and using creativity to challenge the status quo.
Conclusion: Celebrating Legacy, Inspiring Action
In her compelling remarks, Ms. Rose Nabwire, Guild President of Makerere University Business School (MUBS), challenged fellow youth to be bold and intentional about engaging in politics. She urged young leaders to be active listeners and to participate in community empowerment initiatives, such as volunteering and giving back to their communities. Stressing the importance of humility and empathy in leadership, she reminded her peers that true service is rooted in understanding and compassion.
On a more somber note, Ms. Nabwire raised concerns over the increasing commercialization of student politics across universities. She encouraged upcoming leaders to resist this trend and strive for integrity, transparency, and purpose-driven leadership.
Ms. Charity Nduhura, Guild Speaker at UMI, inspired the audience by sharing her personal journey of balancing student life, politics, employment, marriage, and family. As a living testament to the power of resilience and time management, she encouraged young people to understand their priorities and plan their schedules effectively.
In advocating for greater inclusion, Ms. Nduhura appealed to the festival organizers to ensure representation of young women from rural and distant universities in future panel discussions. “We must ensure every voice is heard, especially those from areas often left behind,” she said.
Addressing a persistent societal stereotype, Ms. Nduhura advised women not to be discouraged by those who claim that empowered women intimidate potential partners. “Class attracts class,” she affirmed. “Those who value greatness will always find their way to it.”
Reflections from Butiama: Learning from Mwalimu’s Roots
A moving storytelling session, moderated by Mr. Lawrence Alionzi, the 88th Guild President of Makerere University, brought the spirit of Mwalimu Nyerere closer to home.
Mr. Bruce Mwebaze, a student at Makerere University and a beneficiary of the JNLC’s Butiama learning visit, shared his reflections from the birthplace of Mwalimu Nyerere. He spoke of Nyerere’s deep belief in the power and promise of young people, his humility, and his devotion to servant leadership. Mwebaze recounted how leaders from across Africa would visit Tanzania to learn from Nyerere’s model of transformation—a testament to his enduring influence.
Another visitor to Butiama, Ms. Constance Ichumar, spoke of how the trip provoked deep introspection. “If I died today, what would I be remembered for?” she asked. She praised Nyerere’s vision for a united Africa and his historic efforts to unite Tanzanians under one language—Kiswahili. In his honor, she called upon Ugandans to embrace and learn Kiswahili as a step toward deeper African unity.
Cultural Expression and the Power of Art
As the sun set, participants were treated to an evening of traditional music and dance performances celebrating African heritage—a fitting tribute to Mwalimu Nyerere, who held African culture in high esteem.
The celebrations reached a heartfelt crescendo with “Voices in the Night”, an evocative social event featuring poetry and spoken word inspired by Mwalimu Nyerere’s teachings. Distinguished voices including Dr. Susan Kiguli, Associate Professor at Makerere University, renowned poet Kagayi Ngobi, and creative writing students, performed poems that celebrated African unity, Pan-Africanism, and servant leadership.
Through rhythm, verse, and song, the evening became a living testament to Nyerere’s spirit—a reminder that leadership is not confined to political office, but is lived daily through action, voice, and legacy.
A Festival of Reflection, Action, and Hope
Day One of the Ignite Youth Voices 2025 Festival did more than commemorate the birth of Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere. It sparked renewed dialogue, inspired bold ideas, and summoned a new generation to action. In every voice that spoke, every story shared, and every dance performed, Nyerere’s vision lived on.
As the youth continue to carry the torch of servant leadership, African unity, and ethical transformation, one message rang clear: the future is not something to wait for—it is something to shape, starting now.
By Monica Meeme, Cynthia Ayaa Komakec and Eric Tumwesigye
Makerere University, through its Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD), in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the Embassy of Sweden, UNESCO O3 Plus have successfully trained 250 Student Peer Trainers (SPTs) to strengthen student-led efforts in promoting gender equality and the prevention of gender-based violence.
The three-day capacity-building workshop, held from 5th to 7th May 2026, brought together selected student leaders from across the University and formed part of Makerere University’s commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and gender responsive learning environment. The training equipped participants with practical knowledge and skills to serve as peer educators, advocates, mentors, and referral points for students requiring support on gender-related issues.
The workshop covered a wide range of thematic areas, including the Makerere University Gender Equality Policy, the Policy and Regulations Against Sexual Harassment (PRASH), international, regional and national legal frameworks on gender equality, sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), leadership development, effective communication, and student-led advocacy and action planning.
Facilitators included Susan Mbabazi, Principal Gender Officer; Eric Tumwesigye, Principal Gender Officer; Carol Abilat Gender Officer; Cynthia Ayaa Komakec Gender Officer; Dr. Richard Mwesigwa of UNFPA; Dr. Lilian Tukahira Assistant Administrator; and Judith Kiconco, Gender Officer.
Day One: Building Foundations for Gender Equality and Inclusion
The opening day commenced with welcome and opening remarks delivered by Ms. Susan Mbabazi, Acting Chief Gender Mainstreaming Officer; Ms. Laura Criado Lafuente, Representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA); and Dr. Rodney Rugyema, Office of the Dean of Students, who represented the Vice Chancellor.
Speaking on behalf of UNFPA, Ms. Laura Criado Lafuente described the training as more than a workshop, characterising it as a movement designed to empower students to influence attitudes, behaviours, and social norms within their communities. She encouraged participants to challenge harmful practices, support survivors of gender-based violence, and serve as catalysts for positive change both within and beyond the University.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Dr. Rodney Rugyema emphasised that Makerere University’s mandate extends beyond academic excellence to ensuring the safety, well-being, and holistic development of its students. He urged participants to avoid harmful relationships, prioritise personal safety, and actively contribute to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and supportive campus environment.
Dr. Rugyema further described Student Peer Trainers as the “eyes and ears” of the University community, underscoring their vital role in raising awareness, identifying emerging challenges, and mobilising collective action to prevent and address gender-based violence.
The first day of the workshop also introduced participants to the principles of gender equality, gender mainstreaming, and the institutional frameworks that guide Makerere University’s efforts to promote inclusion, equity, and student welfare.
Ms. Susan Mbabazi provided a historical overview of the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate and highlighted the University’s sustained commitment to creating an equitable and supportive academic environment. She also guided participants through the key provisions of the Policy and Regulations Against Sexual Harassment (PRASH), emphasising the University’s zero-tolerance stance on sexual harassment and all forms of gender-based violence.
Mr.Eric Tumwesigye facilitated a session on foundational gender concepts, enabling participants to deepen their understanding of gender dynamics, stereotypes, power relations, and the importance of promoting equality and inclusivity within university spaces.
A key highlight of the day was a presentation by Ms. Carol Abilat on the Makerere University Gender Equality Policy. She emphasised that gender equality is fundamentally rooted in fairness, dignity, and equal opportunity for all members of the University community, including marginalised groups and persons with disabilities.
Ms. Abilat further explained that the policy aligns with national development priorities and international commitments, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 5 on Gender Equality. Participants were introduced to critical concepts such as consent, sexual harassment, discrimination, gender blindness, and inclusive approaches to teaching, learning, leadership, and institutional management.
Day Two: Understanding Legal Frameworks and Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights
The second day focused on strengthening participants’ understanding of legal and policy frameworks that promote gender equality and protect individuals from discrimination, sexual harassment, and gender-based violence.
Facilitating the session on international, regional, and national legal frameworks, Cynthia Ayaa Komakec provided participants with a comprehensive overview of key human rights instruments and gender equality commitments.
At the international level, participants examined frameworks such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), and the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. Discussions highlighted how these instruments have shaped global efforts to eliminate discrimination and advance the rights and empowerment of women and girls.
The regional discussion focused on the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the Protocol to the African Charter on the Rights of Women in Africa (Maputo Protocol), which provide important protections and promote women’s participation in social, economic, and political development across the continent.
The session also examined Uganda’s national legal and policy framework, including the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda (1995), the Uganda Gender Policy, and relevant provisions of the Penal Code Act.
A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the implementation gap that often exists between legal protections and actual practice. Participants explored the importance of accountability, institutional commitment, awareness creation, and community engagement in translating legal frameworks into meaningful outcomes.
The day also featured a session on Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) facilitated by Dr. Richard Mwesigwa from UNFPA.
Dr. Mwesigwa introduced participants to UNFPA’s mandate and mission before guiding them through key concepts relating to sexual health, reproductive health, rights, and access to services. The session addressed the importance of informed decision-making, consent, healthy relationships, prevention of gender-based violence, and available support mechanisms for students experiencing harassment or abuse.
Participants were also equipped with practical guidance on how Student Peer Trainers can provide information, make referrals, and support fellow students in accessing appropriate services and assistance.
Throughout the day, facilitators emphasised the need to position students as active change agents capable of promoting positive behavioural change within colleges, halls of residence, and wider communities.
Day Three: Partnerships, Leadership and Action Planning
The final day focused on strengthening peer leadership skills and equipping participants with practical tools for developing and implementing student-led initiatives.
Representatives from development partners reaffirmed the importance of youth leadership and collaborative action in addressing gender inequalities and preventing gender-based violence.
Addressing participants, Jessica Pellrud from the Embassy of Sweden emphasised that gender equality remains a critical pillar of sustainable development. She encouraged students to become long-term advocates for social transformation by challenging harmful norms, supporting survivors, and promoting inclusive participation among both women and men.
Eric Tumwesigye reflected on the growth of the Student Peer Trainers programme noting that the initiative has expanded from training 50 students annually to 250 peer educators. The expansion is intended to strengthen outreach and increase access to peer support services across the University.
He encouraged participants to integrate gender awareness into broader discussions on mental health, academic achievement, healthy relationships, and responsible digital engagement.
Facilitating the action-planning session, Dr. Lilian Tukahirwa guided participants through the process of designing practical and achievable interventions for their respective colleges. She emphasised the importance of creativity, flexibility, teamwork, and collaboration with academic staff and College leadership to ensure sustainable impact.
The workshop concluded with participants developing action plans aimed at promoting gender equality, preventing sexual harassment, and strengthening awareness and support mechanisms within their academic units.
Renewed Commitment to Student-Led Change
In his closing remarks, Eric Tumwesigye commended participants for their commitment, discipline, and active engagement throughout the three-day training programme. He also acknowledged the valuable contributions of facilitators and development partners, including UNFPA, and the Embassy of Sweden.
He announced that participants would undertake online evaluations and receive support in developing concept papers for college-based initiatives designed to promote gender equality and prevent sexual harassment.
Tumwesigye emphasised that while institutional support remains critical, the long-term success of the programme depends on sustained student leadership, ownership, and commitment.
The workshop concluded with a renewed pledge from the newly trained Student Peer Trainers to champion gender equality, support vulnerable students, and contribute to building a safer, more inclusive, and gender-responsive Makerere University community.
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