Government leaders and policymakers have called for increased investment in skills development as a way to address youth unemployment and boost Uganda’s economic growth.
Speaking at the 4th Annual National Labour Convention and Expo 2026 at Serena Hotel in Kampala, Vice President Jessica Alupo said Uganda’s youthful population can only drive national transformation if they are properly equipped with practical skills.
“Investing in skills development, job creation, and labour governance is essential to unlocking the country’s demographic dividend,” Alupo said, urging stronger cooperation between government, the private sector, and development partners.
She added that discussions at the convention should lead to real action that benefits young people across the country.
“We must translate dialogue into actionable solutions that empower young people and enhance productivity,” she said.
Minister for Gender, Labour and Social Development Betty Amongi stressed that preparing young people for work and entrepreneurship remains a national priority.
“Uganda’s future depends on how well we equip young people for work and enterprise,” she said, pointing to ongoing government skilling programmes.
State Minister for Labour Esther Anyakun called for teamwork among stakeholders, saying job creation cannot be achieved by government alone.
“No single institution can address these challenges in isolation,” she said, noting initiatives such as apprenticeship programmes, green jobs, and efforts to support informal businesses.
Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa said Uganda must focus on sectors that can create large numbers of jobs, including agro-industrialisation, manufacturing, and the digital economy.
“Our focus must be on promoting productivity and job-rich growth through investment in high-value sectors,” he said.
The two-day convention, held under the theme “Unlocking the Potential of Uganda’s Youth Labour Force: Enhancing Productivity and Expanding Opportunities for Decent Work,” has placed skills development at the centre of discussions on tackling unemployment and improving livelihoods.
