As the race for the National Female Youth MP seat intensifies, one name has risen sharply into national conversation — Nakku Fiona. Once perceived as a late entrant with little chance of disrupting the contest, she has instead emerged as a frontrunner whose message is resonating with youth across Uganda.
Her campaign has been marked by consistent grassroots engagement, digital mobilisation, and a strong focus on the issues young people say have long been ignored by past youth representatives. From unemployment and access to government opportunities, to transforming underutilised youth structures, Nakku has positioned herself as a candidate of both authenticity and solutions.
In this interview, she shares her journey, priorities, and vision for Uganda’s youth.
UGD. Many people say you joined the race late, yet you seem to have gained momentum very quickly. How do you explain this rise?
Nakku Fiona: It’s not entirely true that we joined the race late. We have actually been on the ground for over three months, traversing the country and interacting with youth leaders. In many areas, we have reached out more than once — physically, online, and through constant messaging. Every opportunity available has been used to connect with our people.
That explains what some call our “rapid rise.” The truth is that we have reached out frequently, consistently, and with a superior message that resonates with the youth.
UGD. Many young people feel that past Youth MPs have ignored their most pressing issues. How do you plan to be different?
Nakku Fiona: This is an issue that has come up in almost all our engagements across the country. Moving forward, there must be closer examination to ensure that the aspirations of young people are reflected in the actions, advocacy areas, and legislative agendas of their leaders.
Our youth face unemployment and a lack of sufficient support to access available opportunities. For example, government contracts worth less than 30 million shillings are meant for the youth, but how many young people have the capital to bid for these contracts? Similarly, when a young person seeks credit, how many have the collateral required to access meaningful financing?
These are not abstract challenges — they are the everyday realities of our generation. Addressing them will be my immediate priority.
UGD. What key issues have young people raised with you during your campaigns, and how do you intend to address them?
Nakku Fiona: Our focus has always been on issues that truly affect our people. Even during this campaign, within our modest means, we have endeavoured to offer solutions. For instance, we have encouraged youth leaders to form SACCOS, through which we shall lobby for meaningful support.
Too often, youth structures are reduced to mere mobilisation tools for the party. Beyond elections, they remain underutilised. This must change. We need to build a robust youth league that is both an engine of empowerment and a pipeline for deployment in party and government roles.
As a member of the NRM caucus, I will push for increased percentages in programs that directly benefit young people. That deliberate empowerment is the foundation of real youth representation.
UGD. Critics argue that Uganda’s youth leadership structures are heavily influenced by patronage. How will you navigate this system while staying accountable to young people?
Nakku Fiona: We operate in a multiparty democracy, and naturally, competition plays out at every level — including in the youth league. Many actors with diverse interests take part in shaping these contests.
What we cannot accept, however, is for those external players to take precedence over the youth cause once a Youth MP is elected. My first and most important alliance will always be to the young people. They deserve leadership that is honest, consistent, and committed to positive change.
Q5. Beyond this election, what is your long-term vision for Uganda’s youth, especially young women?
Nakku Fiona: This race will soon be concluded, and I am confident we shall win it with overwhelming support. But that victory is only the beginning. Our real work will be to continue the engagements we’ve already started with young people across the country, setting clear legislative priorities together.
I am encouraged that our message of empowerment and opportunity aligns with the vision of our party and our leader for qualitative growth in the coming term. We shall guarantee youth a stronger voice in Parliament, championing quality education, access to opportunities, and meaningful participation in building our country.
