VP Alupo urges young people to advocate for peace
The Vice President Maj Rtd Jessica Alupo has urged the youth to take a proactive role in the peace process, not merely as passive recipients but as active proponents of peace, tolerance, and coexistence.
She highlighted Uganda’s challenging path towards peace, praising the leadership of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government for ushering in a period of stability, unity, security, and economic advancement.
These sentiments were conveyed in a speech delivered by the Minister of Gender, Labour, and Social Development, Betty Amongi, during the inaugural Pathways to Peace at the Youth Convention on the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), focusing on youth, peace, and security.
She emphasized that Uganda has transitioned from times of conflict and uncertainty to become a model of peace, internationally recognized for its peaceful evolution under President Yoweri Museveni.
“This peace was not a coincidence; it resulted from a deliberate dedication to tolerance, non-violence, and inclusive governance,”she stated.
“Looking ahead to the forthcoming elections, it is vital to recognize that the youth play a pivotal role in shaping Uganda’s future. They represent not only the largest demographic but also the most vibrant, dynamic, and innovative segment of our society,”she added.
The event took place on the 2nd Wednesday at the Uganda Institute of Information and Communication Technology in Nakawa, Kampala.
She underscored the indispensable role of the youth in advocating for peace and fostering coexistence, stating that the inaugural convention lays the foundation for the youth to assume their rightful positions as leaders and peace advocates, shaping a future where conflicts are resolved through dialogue and where every Ugandan, irrespective of background or belief, can live in harmony.
She further noted that Africa stands at a critical juncture where the dreams of its young people must be met with opportunities for growth, employment, and economic engagement.
She highlighted that the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) offers an unprecedented chance for Africa to unleash its economic potential, but for this endeavor to succeed, peace and security are of paramount importance.
