The race for the National Female Youth Member of Parliament seat has intensified as youthful leader Julia Muhumuza officially kicked off her campaign today.
The former Uganda National Students Association (UNSA) Vice President outlined her ambitious vision under the theme “Leaving No Youth Behind”, a message she says will define her nationwide campaign.
Julia, confident and energetic, said the country’s young people deserve a champion who understands their struggles and is ready to fight for meaningful reforms in education, skilling, innovation, and youth empowerment.
“I have been duly nominated for the position of National Female Youth MP, and my mission is clear — leaving no youth behind,” she declared. “We have many government programs meant to help us, but many young people are still not in school, not working, and not being trained. That must change.”
As her campaign kicks off, Julia is prioritizing a push for more skilling hubs across all districts, arguing that the current “two per sub-county” model falls short for a nation with one of the world’s youngest populations. She emphasized that skilling should be accessible, modern, and relevant to the job market.
She also promised to champion the restoration of truly free education in government schools. According to her, Uganda’s UPE and USE programs have been “commercialized,” leaving many vulnerable children unable to stay in school.
“No child should drop out of school because of school fees,” she said. “We must bring back free education in its true form.”
On youth entrepreneurship, Julia pledged to advocate for the speedy passing of the Startup Bill, saying it will create a supportive environment for young innovators and reduce the high rate of business collapse among youth-led enterprises.
“Many startups by young people fail because of high taxes and lack of support,” she noted. “If we can help them grow, they will create jobs and boost the economy.”
In a strong commitment to girls’ welfare, Julia unveiled plans for a National Reusable Pads Campaign, stating that it is unacceptable for a schoolgirl’s education to end over menstrual hygiene challenges.
“It is heartbreaking that some girls drop out because they cannot afford a sanitary pad,” she said. “We will ensure every school has access to reusable pads.”
She also promised to work with leaders and civil society organizations to help teen mothers return to school, adding that no girl’s future should be defined by early motherhood.
When asked about her political affiliation, Julia struck a unifying tone, saying her campaign transcends party colors.
“This election is not about NRM, opposition, or independent,” she said. “We all face the same struggles — unemployment, poverty, and lack of opportunity. As youth, we must unite to change that.”
Supporters and youth leaders who turned up for her campaign launch hailed her as a relatable and courageous voice capable of inspiring a new chapter for Uganda’s young people.
