By Markson Omagor
Former Jinja City councillor Joseph Ngobi has called for greater involvement of young people in community development, arguing that young people should have meaningful opportunities to participate in decisions affecting their communities.
Ngobi, who previously represented Namulesa North Ward in Jinja City, says young people should not be viewed simply as beneficiaries of government programmes. In his view, they should also be recognised as active contributors who can help shape the future of their communities.
“Young people should be given space to participate in decisions that affect their future,” Ngobi says. “They have ideas and solutions, but sometimes they need opportunities and platforms where their voices can be heard.”
Having served at local government level, Ngobi says his experience taught him the importance of understanding the challenges faced by residents at grassroots level.
He believes community development works best when leaders maintain regular contact with the people they represent and understand their day-to-day concerns.
“Leadership should begin with listening. You cannot fully understand the challenges of a community if you are not willing to engage with the people who live there.”
Ngobi identifies employment and limited economic opportunities among the issues that continue to affect many young people.
He believes greater attention should be given to vocational training, entrepreneurship and practical skills that can help young people become economically independent.
“Education is important, but young people also need practical skills and opportunities to use those skills. When someone has a skill and an opportunity, they can create a future for themselves and sometimes create opportunities for others.”
He also encourages young people to participate in voluntary and community activities, arguing that leadership doesn’t necessarily require holding political office.
“A person can make a difference without being a councillor, MP or holding any political position. You can support someone in your community, volunteer, mentor a young person or participate in a community project.”
Ngobi says his experience in public life reinforced his belief that meaningful change often begins at community level.
He believes local leaders have an important responsibility to communicate with residents and ensure their concerns are properly represented.
“People want to know that their voices matter. Even when a problem cannot be solved immediately, people deserve honest communication about what is being done.”
He also encourages young people to take greater responsibility for their own development rather than waiting for opportunities to come to them.
According to Ngobi, education, skills development, entrepreneurship and community involvement can all provide avenues through which young people can improve their prospects.
He believes the future of communities will depend significantly on how effectively young people are supported and encouraged to participate in society.
“Young people are not simply the leaders of tomorrow. They are already part of the community today, and they should have a role in shaping it.”
For Ngobi, empowering young people means creating an environment where they can participate, develop their abilities and contribute meaningfully to the communities in which they live.
